Busanga Safaris

New for 2012 a 4 Day Rwanda safari which crams in as much gorilla tracking as possible, including x2 gorilla tracking permits in the cost .

2012-01-03T04:29:00.001-08:00

A short but active 4 Day Rwanda safari which crams in as much gorilla tracking as possible, including x2 gorilla tracking permits in the cost and uses possibly the best placed lodge in the region to encounter these great apes which are very often no more than 2 - 3 kms from the lodge and sometimes closer. We can arrange this trip on dates to suit you and prices which reduce depending on the number of people in your group we also offer a set date departure to help you enjoy the safari with like minded people at a very reasonable cost.

This safari can be easily combined with a longer safari in Uganda or Kenya, just ask and we will be happy to help with a suggested itinerary.
We also arrange for you to stay at a private house used by film maker Jack Hanna suited to couples or small groups. Using Jack Hanna's House :+ $400 ( £256 ) pp for more info contact Tony tony@busangasafari.co.uk UK 01628621685

Busanga Safaris will be attending various shows and expo's in 2012, Click here for tickets

2011-11-16T05:06:00.001-08:00

WE WILL BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING SHOWS AND EXHIBITIONS IN 2012

www.adventureshow.co.uk

28th - 29th Jan 2012 Olyimpia.

DISCOUNT TICKETS . You are entitled to tickets for £4 in advance saving £6 off the door price, (a £2.50 booking fee for postage and package applies) tickets can be purchased at www.adventureshow.com or on0871 230 7159 when quoting “BUSANGASAFARIS”

www.destinationsshow.com

We have complimentary tickets, just call or email and we will be happy to send you free entry tickets for thie event.

Hi .....

It will be great to say hello and to talk to you about our plans for 2012, which see's us offering more of our very popular set date safaris to Zambia and beyond and a number of really interesting new safaris.
Both Tony and Tyrone will be on stand along with Linda Lee and Drew Burnett all of whom have been busy on safari this year and will be taking set date departures Africa in 2012. We will have our new highlights brochure available on stand

Tyrone McKeith the 23 year old wildlife expert and manager of Busanga Plains camp, one Africa's most beautiful safari campswill be giving an interesting and light hearted talk at Adventure Travel Live, about his life in the bush and what you can expect from a safari to the wonderful Kafue and safaris in Zambia. You can also meet and chat to Tyrone Mckeith on our stands at both shows , also Tony Mckeith recently back from 6 months living in and running a greta little bush camp in Zambias South Luangwa and Linda Lee who guides a number of our set date safaris, Drew Burnett Profesional Photographer and guide on our new photo safaris in 2012.

You can find out how we, strive to avoid the single Supplement charges for solo travelers.

Learn about our latest safari ideas in: Botswana - Zambia - Zimbabwe - Kenya - Tanzania.

We have some unique idea's if you want to try a different safari experience: Walking & Bush camping - Photography & art in the bush - Specific Species (Lion , / Wild dog / Gorilla) or very special places (Liuwa Plain / Bangweulu / The Okavango). May be you would like some inspiration

We are looking forward to seeing our old friends / clients and chatting to new clients who would like some real advice from the people who know the bush and the camps.

Come and share our enthusiasm for safari

If you would like complimentary tickets for Destinations please just get in touch letting us know your address and we will do the rest.

ZIMBABWE New ideas to safari with our man Doug.

2011-10-31T04:35:00.000-07:00

We have just finished planing some new itineraries for 2012 to Zimbabwe. Visit our Zim Ideas page We are offering several safaris guided by our man in Zim Pro Guide Doug Macdonald, If you dont see exactly what you had in mind or have yiour own ideas drop us a line and we will be happy help you plan your safari.

Busanga Safaris are ATOL bonded, that means complete financial security.

2011-10-11T06:46:00.000-07:00

We are an ATOL approved agent and that means the cost of your safari is protected and you have complete peace of mind.
We can also arrange all of your international flights to co incide with your safari, at very competitive rates.

A great Green Season safari idea, for when costs are low, and the bush is full of life.

2011-09-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

This 7 day safari combines Luangwa River Camp, Nsefu and Nkwali, and Camps.

"The Luangwa Valley is at its most dramatic in the Emerald Season, with the Luangwa River now flowing over into the brimming lagoons. Boating into these lagoons, flooded ebony groves and flowing channels gives you a view of the Valley which is normally inaccessible during this season". Take a look at further photos and details.

The Luangwa River is one of the last remaining major rivers in Africa, and even in the world, that has not been damned for hydropower. This vast river still annually rises, floods into lagoons and channels, changes course and resulting in new lagoons and in so doing creates an rich flood plain river system. To be in the heart of the park, at peak flood time, staying at the first camp built in Zambia (1951) with the river being your only access, is quite an experience.

At Luangwa River Camp and Nkwali you will drive, walk and boat. Most of the game in this area remains resident all year and so the game viewing is always excellent and hopefully you will see wild dog as it is the season for our top viewing season for the dogs. A relaxed boat up or down the Luangwa River will be your transfer to and from Nsefu, bird watching and game viewing on the way.

At Nsefu the emphasis will be on exploring the flooded ebony groves and lagoon systems, flowing channels and tributaries by boat. There will also be excellent walking, including a boat and walking combination to reach one of southern Africa's largest yellow billed stork colonies in full action.

Itinerary Luangwa River Camp 2 nights, Nsefu 3 nights and Nkwali 2 nights
Transfers By boat Luangwa River Camp/Nkwali/Nsefu - Mon, Thurs and Sat only
IncludedAll safari costs (activities, national park fees, bar and laundry),
airport transfer from Mfuwe Airport.
Not IncludedFlights, airport taxes and visa.
Rate $3250 per person sharing
Single supplement US$1046 per night

Valid Between 22 Jan – 31 March 2012

Call or email for more details or click the link to see photos

HELLO FROM THE BUSH . OUR LATEST NEWSLETTER

2011-08-20T01:59:00.000-07:00

Hello from the bush ...... Zambia feature

Interesting, varied, dramatic, exciting, beautiful, all words which describe the wildlife of Zambia, but all can also be applied to the landscape and it's people.

No wonder that Zambia remains our most popular safari destination.
It is a simple fact that no other UK safari company has such a personal hands on link with Zambian safaris, not just offering a large but also carefully thought out choice of safari ideas across all of Zambia's key destinations, but also personally managing two really special safari camps in the vast and dramatic Kafue national park where Tyrone is managing the beautiful Plains camp, and the simply wonderful South Luangwa, where in the shade of a Rain tree overlooking a river heaving with hippo, I am writing this newsletter.

We at Busanga Safaris are uniquely placed to offer the best advice to our clients travelling to Zambia on safari and provide on the ground travel assistance if required. Also to arrange safari itineraries not just at the camps we manage, but also we offer completely unbiased advice and ideas which include all of the best safari camps across Zambia (and beyond) ensuring that visitors get a safari which will best suit them.

It's not all bush life for us though and at our office in the UK we have been investing in some very clever computer equipment to improve communications and booking systems that help insure no hiccups.

We have also been listening to our clients who have been increasingly asking us to assist in arranging their safaris from start to finish including flights and so are investing a great deal of time and money to be able to provide our guests with a one stop for all of your fully bonded flights and travel arrangements, giving complete financial security, we will tell you ore about that when everything is in place around October.

I hope you enjoy this newsletter and are inspired to visit Zambia soon.

Please drop me a line with any questions or ideas you may have, or just to hear about what is happening here in the bush, it is always nice to hear from you.

Tony..

Unexpected Wildlife Encounters

Leopards leopards everywhere. Well that what it feels like this year, sightings are very common and always exciting. Guests have enjoyed record numbers of sightings including 11 different Leopards spotted (excuse pun) in just 8 days in the Valley.
With this many cat sightings guests have witnessed some unexpected behaviour.

A female leopard was seen successfully hunting a Puku fawn which instead of killing she carried in to a thicket and began to tease the baby in to making a distress call which attracted an adult close to investigate which she then tried unsuccessfully to hunt, we were surprised then when the Leopard returned to the young puku and carried it still alive to another bush and attempted the same thing again! again missing but clearly showing it was no fluke, she did eventually kill and eat the young puku.
Early morning game drive found a male Leopard being courted by not one but two beautiful females both in season and flirting like mad, doing his best to keep everyone happy he went from one to the other mating with both for some time before having to climb a tree to get any peace, leaving the two females to briefly fight it out before slipping away, no doubt not far.
Another pair were seen mating obligingly close to our vehicle giving clients great photo opportunities when we noticed three Lions stalking the pre occupied pair, fortunately and typically for cats the mating is brief, exactly for this reason, and they noticed just in time to both bolt up a tree just far enough to avoid the Lions.
Some of the lesser predators like Genets can provide interesting sightings but don't have it all their own way, a Gennet was being watched recently foraging in the early evening, when in the blink of an eye a giant Eagle owl swooped down and took the unsuspecting creature in to a tree, and well you can imagine the rest.
Marshal eagles always generate a lot of reaction from other birds, squirrels, monkeys and baboons. The presence of a juvenile eagle was loudly announced by a large male baboon, as it landed in a small old tree adjacent to the dining deck at Kafunta during lunch. The baboon ran, barking loudly, across a 100 mtrs of open plain intent on the eagle as it neared the eagle took off and so did the baboon who leapt up to grab it just brushing it's tail feathers, the eagle landed on another tree and the baboon continued his chase this time the eagle did not wait and glided away across the plain scattering a heard of Puku.

Elephants of course always provide interest and action. A great bull elephant who we meet often at Island Bush Camp was encountered on a narrow track in a mopane woodland, standing, but fast asleep with his trunk resting on the ground as we approached he woke just long enough to shake his head at us and then we noticed as he stood just a few mtrs from the car we noticed that his eyes became heavy and his trunk relaxed and he went back to sleep, leaving us stranded and whispering so as not to wake him, we took the chance to break out a flask of coffee and enjoy the sound of the bush and the gentle rumbling of the elephant.

Every day creates just such unexpected and magical encounters, why not come and have some of your own.

Safari Ideas - Guided trips & Costs

Although clients are already booking to safari in 2012 it is not too late to escape to Africa this year, so why not have a look at some of our suggested Zambia safari ideas and maybe take advantage of our 10% discount on our Bush Experience safaris for late bookings (booked 40 days prior to travel, subject to availability), which always generate great feed back from our clients.

2012 is very exciting for us at Busanga with many exciting plans. We continue offering our selection of small group escorted safaris, designed to get the very best from a safari to Zambia.

Guests will be able to visit the Kafue, the Luangwa or a combination of both. We will also be offering safaris to the Kasanka national park and Bangweulu for the more adventourus birders ! and some fantastic award winning mobile safari options.
We will be updating our website with the dates and plans for our set date safaris for next year, if you would like to hear first please just drop us a line and we will get back as the information becomes availabile.

You will be able to meet us at the Destinations Travel Show at Londons Earls Court in early Febuary 2012 and also at The Adventure Travel Live show in London where Tyrone will also be giving an interesting, lighthearted and inspiring talk on the Kafue and in particular his home in the Bush the Busanga Plains.

We continue to try to avoid charging no single supplement on our guided safaris and on very nearly all of our tailored itineraries in Zambia, which means although travelling alone you are taken care of from start to finish and are not paying any more than you should.

visit our website : www.Busangasafaris.com

Email: Info@busangasafari.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 1628 621685

This email was sent by Busanga Safaris Ltd, 6 Reeve Road, Holyport, Berkshire, SL6 2LS

Odzala, Congo - New safari ideas from Busanga

2011-08-11T02:59:00.000-07:00

As one of only a very few safari campanies in the world to have real hands on experience on safaris in the Congo region we are very pleased to be able to be able to offer what we think will be the next step forward in tourist activity to the . Working in hand with a new an eco-project in the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) our aim will be to soon announce set date departures for shorter 6 night safaris with the aim of introducing our guests to tracking of the Western Lowland Gorilla. We will operate in and near the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in Congo, where we will also be able to enjoy seeing forest elephant, forest buffalo, bongo, sitatunga, red river hog, slender snouted crocodiles and other primate species, to name but a few .. and what a few they are…
Odzala-Kokoua National Park lies is the remote north of the country - in the heart of the Congo Basin, the world’s second largest expanse of tropical rainforest. Aside from a host of forest biodiversity, it holds Africa’s densest population of Western Lowland Gorillas. It is also renowned as the richest forest block in central Africa for primates species with eleven diurnal species recorded.

Activities range from gorilla tracking (habituated groups), pirogue rides along lush river systems, night drives in the savannah, walks along lush forest streams and salines, and of course time spent at the productive forest bais.
The camps are already being built at Odzala. and the design philosophy is one of a green, sustainable, earth-friendly nature, where we will reduce the building impact on human health and the environment

In terms of the actual programe, we are working on a “set departure” style itinerary, coinciding with the current flight schedule of inbound flights to Brazzaville.
In essence we are looking at a Thursday departure from Brazzaville to the camps – staying 3 nights at each of the 2 camp before returning to Brazzaville.

The itinerary as well as the costings are being finalised and we hope to have
more information on the camps and itineraries in the next couple of weeks.

If You would like to receive info on this exciting new safari by email please drop us an email and we will keep you uptodate

A true walking mobile safari - special offer

2011-07-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

A true mobile safari with the award winning team at Robin Pope safaris .
7 nights Combining some of the best safari camps in Zambia with a five day walking safari which is backed up by a totally mobile camp - a winning combination for those looking to be totally immersed in the bush.
"When I tell guests about this safari I always I just want to book myself on " Tony - Busanga Safaris

The safari begins with a flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe, where you will meet your guide and drive to Nkwali, staying for the first 2 nights, you will have had chance to explore on game drives and night drives (and of course walks), with good photographic opportunities. The safari then heads up to the remote north of the park. This takes you through different country and woodland , passing through a petrified forest and large open pans which attract some unusual species of both birds and antelope (Lichenstien's hartebeest). The party will picnic on the way making the journey very much part of the safari.

For the next 5 days the safari follows the Mupamadzi River - a clear water, major tributary of the Luangwa. The tents are "walk in" that open both ends for good ventilation with camp beds, mattress, sheets and blankets. The shower is under a tree and the loo is a short drop with a wooden throne. The dinning table is under the shadiest tree and the bar is a small table with the glasses and drinks, next to a small gas fridge to keep the beers and wine chilled.

The day starts before dawn, getting up for a quick breakfast around the camp fire. Setting off for the morning walk around six, the morning walk will be from 4 to 6 hours depending on sightings and enthusiasm.
After lunch there is a chance for a rest, read or snooze before afternoon tea. The afternoon walk is gentle, short and often sundowners will be brought to a meeting spot in the bush by vehicle and so there is a short spotlight drive back to camp. Then in the evening a shower and a welcome dinner, Then if you wish drinks around the fire before before heading to your very comfortable bed - weary and happy usually serenaded by the local lion pride or hyena.
The camp is very simple, a row of tents "walk in" that open both ends for good ventilation with camp beds, mattress, sheets and blankets), a shared large bucket shower and two "bush loos". The dinning table is under the shadiest tree and the bar is a small table with the glasses and drinks, next to a small gas fridge to keep the beers and wine chilled. The food is first class and the same standard as the safari camps.
On day that camp moves, the team will break camp, pack the truck and headed off to the next camp site. They arrive, set up camp, cook lunch, If a little late on departure the chef may end up chopping onions on top of the "kitundu" (safari kit)!, and as you walk in hot and no doubt a little tired from your walk - you will be greeted with cold drinks and lunch will be ready.
The walking is varied in difficulty as the terrain changes and the morning walks are from 6 to 10 kilometers. The timing, distance and toughness of the walks is determined by the group but you do need to be "walking fit" and we say that as a guide you should be able to run at least 50 meters (not from an animal of course ).

The area is very different from the Luangwa River. The area is remote and wild, the terrain and habitats varied and the game shy and unused to man. From ants to buffalo, a bird's nest to tracking a lion, you will learn the many facets of the bush. The Mupamadzi is clear and shallow. A tributary of the Luangwa, it rises in the mountainous escarpment within sight. We crossed the river many times - the ritual of taking of the boots and cooling the feet became second nature! There are foothills, open plains, thickets, wooded parklands, reedbeds, forest - amazing how many terrains and habitats you can walk through in one day.

The safari ends with 2 nights at the beautiful Nsefu Camp, where you will stay in a super cottage and enjoy the veryu high standards of care and quality wildlife viewing that the Luanagw and Robin Pope safaris are so well known for.
Contact us now for availability : 01628 621685 or click here for full details

11 Leopards in one week A guests eye view.

2011-07-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

The Leopards of South Luangwa

For the 5 years, since I was bitten by the African Safari bug, a leopard sighting has evaded me. Last year in Northern Kafue, a brief glimpse at sunset was exciting but ultimately unsatisfying. South Luangwa is famous for its leopard population so I was filled with high hopes for the trip to Kafunta Lodge at Mfuwe, but previous disappointments had left me cautious.

I needn’t have worried. On my return home, I was asked at work what the highlight of the trip was…. I said, with typical English diffidence, the 11 leopard sightings!

Here are the leopards….

Day Two PM - Leopard 1
A great night sighting for our first leopard was this male stalking a group of impala. We went over to watch and he settled down to wait. I could hardly believe how slight and beautiful he was and it was brilliant to see him skilful manoeuvring ever closer to the prey. We left her patiently watching them in the moonlight.

Day Three AM - Leopard 2
Morning plans had changed suddenly as we left the camp when we saw a group of elephants moving across the plain in front of us to go to the river. Whilst we watched them drinking, baboons were making alarm calls in the trees on the opposite bank. We raced across the river by pontoon and immediately came across a herd of puku, alert and alarm calling. Josephat, our guide (and who was later christened the Leopard King) told us to start scanning the tree line. I am rather proud to say I spotted our second leopard yards from the landcruiser. The leopard was moving quickly and soon disappeared into the trees but was a brilliant sight for the sheer proximity and clarity of viewing in daylight.

Day Three PM - Leopards 3-7

Our first spot came soon in the afternoon with a leopard moving quickly in the undergrowth. We watched in awe as he walked in front of the car and was gone in the flash of an eye.

The others came at the end of the evening but were all the more interesting as we spotted 2 mating pairs. The first was a male, climbing the rocks to a female waiting high up for him. The second came shortly after when we turned a corner and saw a male with a small, very shy female, just walking down the road towards us.

Back at camp for drinks and dinner and we can’t help a small amount of celebrating – 5 leopards in one evening drive – 6 in total for the day!

Day Four PM – Leopard 8
The briefest but most exciting sighting came tonight. We were tracking a small group of lions (2 female and 1 male) when in the sweep of the night light, we saw a leopard in the middle of the plain drinking from a stream. The 2 lionesses walked towards the leopard, who, with a certain amount of arrogance, casually walked away. Suddenly the lionesses started hunting and the leopard was running for its life. In a moment of almost comic action, the leopard leapt down a gully and then came back up running around a tree, followed quickly by each lioness in turn. After 2 circuits, the leopard shot straight up the tree and left the lionesses watching thoughtfully below. I sat with my heart pounding, willing the leopard to get away – I thought with horror that after 5 years of waiting to see leopards, I was about to watch one being killed!

Day Five AM – Leopard 9
Our fifth day brought us to Alice. A leopard well-known in the area and perhaps the best sighting I will ever have in my life. We came across her sitting in the sunshine, pregnant and resting quietly. She was very calm as we watched her from close by.
The nights had brought full moonlight and therefore poor hunting and while we were watching, Alice clearly decided to take advantage of the relaxed state of the impala and puku nearby.

We followed in fascination as she stalked down a gully through the middle of the herds, moving so carefully and purposefully.

As she rolled in the dust, Josephat explained she was disguising her scent to allow her to get closer to her prey. We stayed for an hour with her and left her hiding in the gully, yards from an impala that was completely oblivious to her presence.

The following days brought a break from our routine as we moved to the Island Bush Camp, a four-hour drive from Kafunta, where the days are spent on walking safari and learning bush craft in a beautiful, remote and rustic environment.

Day Nine PM – Leopards 10 - 11
Our last evening drive with Andrew (we’d left Josephat behind in the Bush Camp) did not disappoint and our luck continued with a brilliant sighting of a leopard sleeping up a tree. I’d seen this in other people’s photos and had always thought it was a great sight to see them totally relaxed, flopped across a branch, legs dangling freely.
Our last sighting came as we were tracking two lionesses and an old male. It was a very dark night and perfect for hunting. We drove ahead of the lions to park on the side of the plain in the direction they were heading in the hope of catching them hunting. As we waited for the lions, we saw a leopard stalking impala down the side of the plain. Suddenly the impala took fright and ran off, calling. The leopard found a spot on a hill nearby and settled down to wait.

For a while we turned the lights off and sat in perfect darkness beside the leopard, waiting for the lions and listening to the sounds of night. I will never forget the feeling of the bush, so alive with the sense of anticipation of something waiting to happen. Of course, for humans, the park closes at night so, too soon, we had to leave, and with a deep pang of regret that this was my last night… until next year and another adventure.

Selinda Canoe Trail Botswana. No single supps !

2011-06-12T01:39:00.000-07:00

A magical experience, the Selinda Canoe Trail is a canoeing and walking adventure safari, replicating the safari experiences of old as it navigates along the Selinda Spillway. The area evokes remoteness and solitude, combined with excellent wildlife viewing.

Great news, for all new bookings on the Selinda Canoe Trail from now until the end of October 2011, all single supplements will be waived (subject to availability).The three-night/four-day safari covers approximately 45km while the nights are spent in fly camps along the way, set up wherever the canoeists end up. Camps are set in prime, shady sites from whhich to explore remote and secret corners of the bush. The days are spent paddling eastwards along the Spillway, stopping whenever there is something of interest to be seen along the banks, such as the many wildlife and bird species found in the area.

The area is well known for elephant, buffalo, sable antelope, roan antelope and wild dog, while cheetah, lion, leopard and variety of other species are also found. The Selinda is also a birding paradise with some 300 species or more to be seen. With many males trying to claim the territory around the Tshwene area, lions are often seen and are very vocal at night.

Each canoeing day begins at first light when the Spillway is at its most peaceful. After an early coffee and snack, we set off for the day's adventure. Walking is part of the experience. If there happens to be activity that warrants investigation, the guide will stop on the banks and take a short walk into the bush. A brunch will be taken around mid-morning and light snacks will be available throughout the day for sustenance until dinner.

We have a number of great ideas to explore Botswana from luxury mobile camps to award wining camps in the Okavango, Moremi, the north and the arid Kalahari. Get in touch for help and advise.

Yellow Fever - do I need it?

2011-06-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

Passengers travelling between Europe and Zambia will not be required to have a Yellow Fever certificate.

South African Department of Health has decided Zambian travelers will also require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Please be urgently advised that all passengers traveling between South Africa and Zambia (both directions) with effect from 1st July 2011 will be required to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate. This is due to the World Health Organizations recent revision of the Yellow Fever recommendations for Africa. This includes all transit passengers between the two destinations, irrespective of the time period in transit, will also require proof of yellow fever vaccination.
NOTE: A yellow fever vaccination needs to be done no less than 10 days prior to travelling.

Please also be aware that

The list countries for which a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into South Africa are as below: Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Guinea-Bissau, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guyana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan ,Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Venezuela, Zambia.

ETHIOPIA added to our portfolio

2011-06-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

We are really happy to be able to offer safaris / cultural journeys to stunning Ethiopia. The inspiration to offer Ethiopia came in the most classic of way, through black & white photos and stories told by Tony's great aunt who travelled extensively here in the late 1940's/50's.
The interesting and endemic wildlife of the region combined with an amazingly long and varied history make Ethiopia a classic destination for the keen traveller.
We have carefully chosen a partner in Ethiopia who can help us to create and provide outstanding journeys of discovery supported and who can provide us with expert guides, to unlock the whole picture for our clients.
Please visit our suggested Ethiopian safaris or call to discuss your own ideas that we can help you turn in to the idea safari.

Wildeye Photographic Safari

2011-05-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

I am always excited about new safari ideas and this time especially so as we have joined up with an award winning wildlife photographer Drew Burnett to create two guided photography safaris to suit all abilities. These are small group safaris with just a maximum of 6 guests, Drew will help to build on your photographic knowledge and in getting those perfect wildlife shots. Sept & Oct 2012 are the height of the dry season in Zambia when Hippo fight for space and the time that the strikingly beautiful Carmine Bee eaters return to breed in colonies on the sandy river banks. These trips cost little more than an un guided safari and make for a very different experience. Click here to visit Drews safari.

Busanga Safaris promotes the Kafue

2011-05-29T22:26:00.000-07:00

When other safari companies are thinking of nothing but selling more safaris we are thinking just as hard about first promoting those special places where rare or interesting wildlife occurs in the hope to inspire visitors to safari with us to see for themselves.
No more so than in Zambia's Kafue. Inspired by it's remoteness and varied wildlife we arranged our first safaris to there about a decade ago, it was good then but how it has changed. The wildlife numbers are greater and we know lots more about the diversity and distribution. There are still few safari camps in what after all is Africa's 2nd largest national park and those that are there are sensitivly managed and contribute to the welfare of the park and it's wildlife. Yet although visitor numbers have increased a little, and in truth we don't want too many ! the Kafue remains under promoted, and so when ever we get a chance to help it's profile we are happy to step up. Our Tyrone, who you may know lives in the Kafue and manages the wonderful little Busanga Plains Camp, has recently been contributing his words and experience to write and update the pages dedicated to the Kafue on the official Zambia Tourisum website and has also features about the Kafue to Wildlife extra the highly regarded wildlife magazine, including an article on the return of the Elephants , and giving a talk about the Kafue in London at the Adventure Travel Live show, which was very well received and led to experienced safari goers choosing to visit, and further offers to talk, which will have to wait for another time. Back in Zambia Tyrone has found time to compile a comprehensive wildlife guide to the Kafue which is being contributed to produce a guide book for sale to visitors, the revenue will be ploughed back in to managment and wildlife protection in the Kafue. Although his exploits at the jaws of a crocodile, looking after the first Lady, swimming across the Busanga plains and encounters with lions in the office would probably also sell well but that's also for another time.

We would love to show you the Kafue why not this year?

New photographic safari with Patrick Bentley, award winning wildlife photographer.

2011-04-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARI WITH PATRICK BENTLEY

In August 2011, award winning wildlife photographer Patrick Bentley (www.patrickbentley.com) will lead an intimate photographic safari deep into the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.

PATRICK BENTLEY
Patrick began guiding in the South Luangwa in 1994 and has extensive experience of the area and its wildlife as well as in-depth knowledge of the African bush and animal behavior. He photographs the area regularly and knows its inhabitants and their haunts well.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS:
Experience and photograph some of the most intense concentrations of wildlife in Africa around the Luangwa River and its oxbow lagoons.
Be guided by a professional wildlife photographer and accredited safari guide in areas of the South Luangwa that he photographs regularly, where he knows its inhabitants and is involved in their conservation.
Stay at a lodge with wildlife and photographic opportunities just outside your chalet door.
Spend quality photographic time with wildlife - leaving the lodge before sunrise to catch the best light in the morning and staying out after dark to take advantage of night drives.
Meet and spend time with people of similar wildlife and photographic interests who are as keen as you are to make the most of every photographic opportunity.

SAFARI FOCUS
The focus of this photographic safari will be on intensive photography in the field. We will leave the lodge before sunrise each day (around 5am) to catch the best light and return for a delicious brunch in the late morning. The heat of he afternoon can be spent relaxing in the shade of the lodge or simply downloading photographs, charging batteries and cleaning equipment ready for the afternoon drive. There will be plenty opportunity to review images and discuss photographic techniques.

We will leave the lodge again at mid-afternoon and stay out until 8pm to photograph nocturnal activity. When we return to the lodge we will be welcomed with drinks at the bar, a 4-course meal, coffee around the fire and, inevitably, much photographic conversation! The drives will be in an open-top Land Cruiser with plenty of space for equipment and moving around. "Prime seats" will be rotated on a regular basis

NEW SEPTEMBER DATE FOR OUR POPULAR KAFUE SAFARIS

2011-02-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

We have just added a new date in September for our popular set date safaris to the wonderful Kafue in Zambia. The safari visits varied habitats from the permanent rivers and woodland to the wide Busanga Plains. Staying in three great camps including "The Plains camp".

£2,691 9 nights
£2,444 8 nights
No Single Supplements
19th Sept 2011 9 nights 6 spaces available (Guided by Linda Lee )
29th Sept 2011 8 nights 6 spaces available (Guided by Linda Lee )

Congo Gorilla Safari. Oct 2011. The ultimate wildlife adventure.

2011-02-01T10:10:00.000-08:00

Fifteen days of adventure on a journey into the remote tropical rainforests of central Africa is a trip definitely not for the faint-hearted, where undoubtedly, the most spectacular animal is the barrel-chested Lowland Gorilla with a distinct crown of reddish-chestnut hair. Large areas of these forests are undisturbed with Forest Elephant, monkeys in the canopy, antelope, birdlife and are sparcely populated with Bantu and Ba Aka Pygmy tribes
The recent discovery of clearings (known as Bais) far away from areas ever explored by white men has proved to be one of, if not the greatest, wild discoveries for decades. Here in the marshy clearings where sunlight has been able to reach the forest floor and where grasses and Papyrus can grow, forest Elephants gather to feed and socialize and in doing so keep these oasis of light open as lush feeding grounds for previously unstudied groups of remarkable Lowland Gorillas.

This trip includes Nouabale-Ndoki and Dzanga-Sangha National Parks at the famous Mbeli and Dzanga bais. We enter a pristine region full of wildlife. Here we spend time watching Lowland Gorillas and forest Elephants amongst a myriad of other rarely seen and quite beautiful forest wildlife and birds from the comfort of miradors [Large covered viewing platforms]. We also spend time tracking gorillas on foot with Ba-aka Pygmy trackers. A highlight of the trip is an uncontrived day spent with the Ba-aka, joining them on a traditional net hunt, and gaining an insight into the medicinal and food plants of the forest and perhaps food preparation and shelter building.

This is an adventurous safari and a basic level of fitness is required as you will be climbing in and out of Pirogues (dugout canoes) and walking in forest trails, you will at times be hot, uncomfortable (numb bums in canoes) and probably wet, you will also probably be bitten by the odd mozi, but this is the Congo. We will travel in 4 x 4 wheel drive vehicles, motorised pirogues, small pirogues powered by Pygmy and Bantu tribesmen, and on foot into the remotest parts of the jungle, and yet your accommodation will be surprisingly comfortable with private bathroom facilities and cold drinks.

Liuwa Plain , guided by Robin Pope - A short on video

2011-01-17T06:30:00.000-08:00

Just a few times each year Robin Pope the legendary guide takes small groups of
visitors to the achingly remote and untouched Liuwa Plains in the far west of Zambia.
Here Hyena are the apex predators and it is the home of the largest wildebeest migration second only to the Serengeti. So often parts of Africa are described as wild and remote and untouched but this really is all of those things. Not for your first safari but certainly a must if you want unusual and dramatic. If course all done with a good degree of comfort!
Click the link to enjoy a short video on Liuwa. Any feel free to contact us for more information on joining a safari with Robin.

Take advantage of the April 2011 bank holidays for great value

2010-12-29T02:32:00.000-08:00

The combination of Easter bank holidays, The Royal wedding and May bank holidays in April mean that just 3 days leave from work allows you to take a 10 days holiday, saving the valuable leave days for more trips later in the year.! with the added bonus of low cost safari ideas to take advantage of visiting the bush at this special time of year.

Spend between a 7 to 10 days or longer if you wish in Zambia
EG: South Luangwa at Nkwali Camp (£1950) or combine the Luangwa with the Lower Zambezi for a comprehensive safari (£3100)(see below). Click here for full details We have some excellent idea's for safaris in Botswana which can be tailored around these dates and which combine the Okavango Delta with Linyanti - Chobe - Savuti etc Click for Botswana idea's
Please contact us early to be sure to take advantage of the limited space and great value . tel: 01628 621685

Example.
Emerald season is so called due to the extraordinary colour of the bush once the rain starts to fall. Spend a week at Robin Pope safaris flagship Nkwali Camp - boating (mid Dec-March), walking and game viewing - in this most wonderful time of the year. Although there is a rumour about saying the game is not at its peak - this is just not true.
The game in the central area of the park, where Nkwali operates, is resident. The cats are territorial and we see them throughout the year. There are plenty of open areas and high ground that does not get wet. The game mostly congregates on the high ground and, of course, this is where the roads have been built! Another false rumour is that it rains all day. The mornings usually have beautiful blue skies with clouds building throughout the day leading to evening storms.
Extend your Green Season safari to the Lower Zambezi:
The Lower Zambezi reopens in April, after the peak of the rains, to glorious blue skies. The bush is still fresh although already starting to dry out. Many of the birds are coming to the end of the breeding cycle - with the youngsters following the parents around! The wildlife is in peak conditions after months of lush grazing.
The combination of the South Luangwa with the Lower Zambezi is always excellent. The South Luangwa is a larger park with more game diversity. But the Lower Zambezi has the extra dimension of the Zambezi River - a spectacular, clear wide river. Although there is some boating at Nkwali during April it is limited and does not compare to boating on the Zambezi.
Chongwe River Camp is perfectly situated on the confluence of the peaceful Chongwe River and the mighty Zambezi. The massive grove of winterthorns provide a superb backdrop for this relaxed camp with views of the rivers and the Zambezi escarpment.

Notes:

Includes. Domestic flights, transfers, meals, drinks, activities, park fees
Excludes. Airport tax, Visas, items of personal nature.

WILD DOG - Sighted on Masai Mara. At camp used by Busanga safaris.

2010-12-17T05:01:00.000-08:00

The Mara is a spectacular wildlife destination and we are all familiar with the Lions, Leopards and Cheetahs from a myriad wildlife documentaries or if you have been lucky enough to visit the Mara already. But never seen on TV or otherwise since the 80s,s were its wild dog. These animals need huge ranges and the vast plains were ideal hunting grounds. Sadly, distemper, encroachment, domestic animals and ignorance led to their extirpation from the Mara ecosystem.
In 2008 there were rumours of a return of Wild dogs to the Masai Mara. Kicheche Mara Camp's manager, Jarrod Kyte, does not go in for rumour and hearsay, and nor do his guides, but after spending an afternoon in the Lemek Hills they were astonished to find a pack. The pack appear to have been transient animals and they were not seen again, although there was little doubt that a small number had returned permanently, though they were holed up in the close cover of the hills and escarpments of the Northern Mara and were highly elusive. This find had a remarkable effect on Kicheche's Masai staff, many of whom had grown up with the Wild dogs and were enchanted by them. Sadly though, there were no other sightings for over a year, until December 2010.

Wild dog kill
Kicheche Mara's head guide, Daniel Ntoyian, was returning from a local airstrip transfer. Right outside Kicheche camp he spotted two dogs. Hunting. Wild dogs do not ambush their prey like the other principal predators; they are coursing animals, like jackals and hyenas, and will chase prey for many miles to exhaust them. In this case they had singled out a Thomson's gazelle fawn and ran it down in quick time.
Daniel and his two now breathless passengers witnessed the hunt start to Finnish.

For some reason the Mara is not very busy in November and early December, although we always say it is worth a visit at any time, the dogs may know this which might explain why they were on the open grasslands. But to find them in hunting,is astonishing and pretty much the hardest wildlife currency anywhere. Many said it would never be seen again - they've clearly never stayed at Kicheche.Another of Busanga safaris recommended camps and the base for our Mara Bush camp Safari.

African Wild dogs, also sometimes called African Hunting dogs or Painted dogs, are pack animals. Each pack has male and female hierarchies; the oldest females are the alpha dogs, but for the males, the situation is more variable. Only the alpha female will produce litters, sometimes very large ones, with as many as 15 or even more sometimes recorded, though 10 is a more usual number. The whole pack is tasked with feeding and protecting the litter.

Why not visit our kenya safaris page and discover what great safaris can be had on the Mara.

This news was brought to us by our friends at Wildlife Extra and Kicheche Safari camp

REALLY WILD PLACES Special offers to Botswana 20% Off the cost off your nights on safari in July

2010-12-03T01:45:00.000-08:00

From the beginning, the aim of Busanga Safaris is to provide our guests with access to the very best wildlife and to use best camps to balance levels comfort (often very high), Botswana offers a great range of opportunities to achieve both. As a promotion at the start of the key time to visit Botswana (July) , Busanga safaris are offering this incentive which drives the cost of a really high quality safari down.

The Okavango Delta, Kwando Linyanti wetlands, Nxai Pan National Park and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve are all highlights of Botswana’s wilderness areas. The Kwando family of camps offers a full and extraordinary range of places, people and activities that will complete an unforgettable safari. This variety in a safari destination achieves the perfect balance of wildlife, culture and adventure
• Lagoon and Lebala - The Kwando Linyanti wetlands, Botswana
• Kwara - The Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Tau Pan - The Kalahari Desert, Botswana
• Nxai Pan - Nxai Pan National Park, Botswana

Kwando Linyanti Wetlands & Okavango Delta
Kwando Safaris has two extensive concessions in these areas offering a true wilderness experience. The original Kwando concession consists of 232,000 ha (550 000 acres) of remote African wilderness, while the Kwara concession in the Okavango Delta is 175,000 ha (430,000 acres).

The wildlife areas of northern Botswana are unfenced, creating a vast expanse of pristine wilderness and natural animal movement. The large concentrations of wild animals in northern Botswana are typical of what is often referred to as ‘old Africa,’ and written about by the early African explorers such as Dr. David Livingstone. Botswana offers us a chance to glimpse this Africa of history.

Kalahari Desert and Salt Pans
Kwando Safaris operates camps in both Nxai Pan National Park and the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Nxai Pan and Tau Pan were the first safari camps to be built in their respective areas and offer an unprecedented opportunity to experience truly pristine wilderness areas and a complete contrast to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta.

Nxai Pan forms part of the great fossil pan system which includes the vast Makgadikgadi salt pans. These pans were once the bed of a super lake fed by the Okavango, Zambezi and Kwando rivers.

As at Nxai Pan – despite the arid environment – the Kalahari desert (Tau Pan) is home to an surprisingly diverse number of flora and fauna perfectly adapted to their surroundings.

Please call or email our UK office Tel ; 01628 621685 and we will be happy to provide more info on the individual camps and put together an itinerary just for you.

John Coppinger recounts an incredible story of Nature in the Raw

2010-11-26T00:40:00.000-08:00

"The Killing Fields"
- 11 November 2010 00:00

This is the driest and hottest November I can recall in the Valley. Usually by now we would have had a few showers to bring some welcome relief from the relentless October heat, but this year there has been just a few small showers in far flung places.

One of the happy consequences of this is remarkable wildlife spectacles.

This is always a tough time of year for the large herbivores: buffalo, elephant and hippo. Buffalo in particular really battle with the lack of food and water - and in this heat they need to drink at least twice a day. My heart goes out to them when they trudge slowly and weakly towards the river and of course the lions loll about at the water’s edge waiting for their next meal to be self-delivered.

As the sun rose a few days ago I set off to track the wild dogs from the air. I had promised Matt from ZCP (Zambian Carnivore Programme…they are doing great work here – check out their website: http://www.zambiacarnivores.org/ ) to do this on a regular basis. We have had great viewing of this pack of 18 dogs but the one distressing fact was that one of the males (suspected alpha male) had a nasty snare. Rachel from SLCS and the ZCP team had tried on several occasions to dart him but he was extremely skittish and they had not been able to get anywhere near him. After many aborted attempts we managed to track them and Rachel successfully darted him and removed the snare – a very difficult job extremely well done.

So on this beautifully clear and still morning, perfect for flying, we felt no anxiety as we head off in a SE direction and picked up their signal within the first 5 minutes – our only objective was to get a fix on them for ZCP records. We found them finishing off a kill (either impala or bushbuck) after which they rushed off and eventually intercepted the road to Kauluzi Gate. They followed the road for some while which provided us with an opportunity to count them and ensure that they were all present and correct. There is a wonderfully descriptive Zambian word which describes Wild Dogs perfectly: ‘movious’. They never stop moving about and cover ground incredibly fast.

Reluctant to return to earth too soon, we diverted slightly to fly over the Tafika walking area where we found a pride of 8 lions (members of the Hollywood pride I believe), having just killed a young buffalo. There was a herd of buffalo not far away and it was apparent that the lions had separated a small group of them and killed one of them. Exciting stuff….but this was only the beginning. Whilst some of the lions began feeding on the downed buffalo, a large male strode purposefully towards the remaining group of 7 buffalo: 4 cows with 3 calves. One of the cows collapsed with exhaustion but managed to rouse herself again as the lion approached. However it was not long before the lion had leapt on the back of another cow and brought her down….support arrived in the form of 2 other lions and the male latched onto the buffalo’s snout to prevent her from defending herself with her lethal horns. This was not enough for the lions and they went in hot pursuit after the remaining 6 buffaloes; in very short order they had the weak cow down, followed by two of the calves. One of these was hit with a dramatic head-on attack by the male lion which resulted in a mercifully quick death for the calf. A lioness persisted in chasing the surviving 3 buffaloes, 2 cows and a calf. She chased them into the dry Chankanga River where one of the cows turned on her and kept her at bay whilst the other cow and last surviving calf scurried up the bank to freedom. We watched in absolute horror as the cow then made a dash for it and tried to follow them up a steep hippo gully, only to be caught and trapped in the gully from the rear by the lioness who latched on mercilessly; she appeared to pierce an artery because soon a river of bright red blood flowed down the gully into the sandy bank below.

A mere 20 minutes had elapsed since our arrival on the scene of death. We were just a few minutes from Tafika and we landed in a daze, barely able to believe what we had seen. Incredible, amazing, horrible…..nature in the raw!

You can vist John Coppingers Safari camps in the Luangwa and share in his knowledge and passion for the bush. Either on our suggested safari idea or we can put something together just for you. Please contact us .

Romantics and honeymooners can follow William and Kate to Kenya, and stay at Lewa

2010-11-16T13:13:00.000-08:00

PRINCE WILLIAM & KATE MIDDLETON ENGAGED -
ON SAFARI AT LEWA KENYA
Prince William and Kate Middleton have just announced their engagement and will marry next year. The couple got engaged on the Lewa Conservancy in Kenya in October.

Romantics and honeymooners can follow William and Kate to Kenya, and stay at Lewa Safari... Camp on the Lewa Conservancy and may be head to the coast after ?

Busanga safaris are one of just a few safari companies who offer Lewa as a safari destination, this is a pristine swathe of Kenyan bush full of Elephant, Rhino, Giraffe, Lion and so much more.

Click here to visit Lewa Safari Camp

Visit us at the Destinations Travel Show 2011

2010-10-21T04:32:00.000-07:00

We hope you can visit us at the Destinations Travel show 2011.

It will be great to say hello and to talk to you about our plans for 2011, which see's us offering more of our very popular set date safaris to Zambia and beyond.
Both Tony and Tyrone will be on stand along with Linda Lee all of whom have been busy on safari this year and will be taking set date departures Africa in 2011. Come and share our enthusiasm for safari.
Both Tony and Tyrone will be on stand along with Linda Lee all of whom have been busy on safari this year and will be taking set date departures Africa in 2011. Come and share our enthusiasm for safari

We will have our new highlights brochure available on stand.

You can find out how we, strive to avoid the single Supplement charges for solo travelers.

Learn about our latest safari ideas in: Botswana - Zambia - Zimbabwe - Kenya - Tanzania.

We have some unique idea's if you want to try a different safari experience: Walking & Bush camping - Photography & art in the bush - Specific Species (Lion , / Wild dog / Gorilla) or very special places (Liuwa Plain / Banweulu / The Okavango).
Or may be you would like some inspiration

looking forward to seeing our old friends / clients and chatting to new clients who would like some real advise from the people who know the bush and the camps.

If you would like complimentary tickets please just get in touch letting us know your address and we will do the rest.

Click here to reqest tickets

17th October Day of the Lions

2010-10-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

17th October

The Kafue turns up yet another day of interest and surprise.

Having been met at Luaska airport and been driven by out trusty driver the 3 or 4 hours in to the bush my latest guests duly arrived at Mukambi , the starting point of there first safari in to the Kafue. After a spot of lunch and a rest I suggested to my new guests (a Lord and Lady from the UK, no less!) we head to the Shishamba area not far from Mukambi Lodge. At first it seemed we would being seeing little more than the tsteste flies which were particularly prevalent that afternoon, that was until we spotted in a dry river bed some interesting little shapes. As we got closer we saw one, then two, then three, little lions cubs! In total we counted 9 small cubs, plus 3 Lionesses on close guard not far away. We sat and watched the pride into darkness, by which time it was time to head back to camp. Along the way we found a Honey Badger ( a big favorite of mine ) and just as we reached Mukambi we found our selves following 2 more Lionesses meandering along the track in no hurry for anything. What a drive!

The next morning we rose early for the drive across the Kafue to the Busanga Plains and my camp/home , a favorite journey of mine as it takes you through some fantastic different habitats always lots of wildlife around and plus a good chance to catch a Leopard or even a Lion before the heat of the day gets too much. As we reached the gate to the park some 7kms from camp Mukambi we spotted in the rising sun 2 very large male lions, feeding on what looked like a baby Impala. What a start! We watched for a while before carrying on following the by know very dusty track across the bush, about 1 hour later we encountered another huge male lion plus a second male and female not far behind. We couldn’t believe our luck and it wasn’t even 08:00 yet!

As we pushed on towards Lufupa rougly 1/3rd of the way , something caught my attention out of the corner of my eye. I slammed on the breaks and decided to reverse to see what I may have seen, this was a wise move as sitting on a termite mound was a pack of 5 Wild Dog! We quickly rattled of some pictures before they headed off into the thicket. Wow!

Past Lufupa camp we headed, stopping for some drinks and at the famous ‘Rocks’, some ½ hour from Lufupa camp a beautiful area wherev giant boldours are scattered close to a shrinking oxbow laggon that attrracts all kinds of animals and birds. On rising over a small gully dead ahead of us lying under a tree was a large… pride of Lions! We counted 2 cubs, 5 Lionesses and 2 sub adult males. This safari was getting better, we couldn’t believe it!
Onwards we drove still awestruck at the game we had seen.
As we approached the turn off for Moshi Camp I once again spotted something under a shaded bush, but what was it? We went to investigate and found, you guessed it! 2 more Lionesses! This was madness!
Again off we headed! We reached the Musanza area, at the base of the Plains, on our final leg to camp. We could not believe what we had been seeing! It hadn’t stopped there though as we rounded a corner a saw 1 young male lion trotting off into the thicket (no pictures of him but we didn’t mind!).
We finally arrived at camp after stopping to enjoy a fantastic herd of Sable in the middle of the plains but with all of us in disbelief at all the Lions we had seen!
The afternoon came after a few hours rest and a nice hearty lunch. It was time for the evening drive! We set off and found some wonderful birds and spectacular Roan antelope. As the sun was setting we reached a small pool of water in the south of the plains, but what was that inside it? Out came the binoculars and what did we find but a dead Hippo! Not only a dead Hippo, but one with 5 Lions feeding off it!
This was an exceptional days sighting by anybodies standards. Over 40 different Lions in 24 hours… oh and don’t forget the Wild Dogs!

Tyrone at home with the Busanga Lions

2010-10-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

When Tyrone was around 10 I took him on safari to Zambia and we visited the Kafue for a week or two and we spent some wonderful days on the Busanga
plains following herds of Buffalo and watching the Lions,in awe of the drama that is the Busanga. 12 years later with Busanga Safaris help our clients to experience the best wildlife encounters and Tyrone with a university degree under his belt,he is managing a simply beautiful bush camp in the heart of the plains, where his deceptivly hard work keeping camp running smoothly for the guest lucky enough to have chosen the Busanga as a safari destination. His work also alows for a great deal of wildlife encounters from vehichle and often on foot as some of the local resident Lions use camp as a base during teritorial patrols or even you camp as a place from which to ambush passing Lechwe antelope. (see previous blog about Comedy Dave). As the season goes on so the Lions and Tyrone become used to each other and so it was not surprising to hear that Tyrone recntly found two young Lions had run amock in his office/radio room turning over tables and chairs and re wireing the radio! Now it appears they use the raised wooden walk way which crosses a swamp river to avoid getting wet feet ! A recent game drive ended as usual with guests about to step down and begin the walk to camp when in the beam of the Landrovers lights Tyrone noticed several univited guests already on the way to camp, yep you guessed it!

A DAY IN THE LIFE AND POSSIBLE DEATH OF

2010-10-06T03:22:00.000-07:00

We love taking our clients on safari ! Here is a great message from Lesley Pritt who joined us on a Kafue safari. Priceless!!

If you love people watching, then the Plains Camp is definitely the place for you. Although, you’ll need to replace “people” with “puku” and “lechwe” as you’ll barely see another soul outside of the camp, which makes it a rather special place to spend some time.

There are many great things about this camp. One of them is whiling away an afternoon, watching the herds grazing, as you sit around camp sipping a cool drink.

It was one such afternoon, when Tony and I were engaged in an unusually intellectual debate about a bachelor herd of lechwe; were they forming a lek?

Quick editorial note: Breeding males compete for central positions on a lek (breeding ground) where females come to breed. Up to 90% of females in a local population visit the leks and mate with centrally placed males.

If you are anything like me, then part of the entertainment of people watching is creating stories about those you are observing. Let me tell you, at first glance a herd of 100 lechwe may seem pretty similar. After an afternoon’s observation, you will soon start to see some personalities emerging….

It was while we were scanning around with the binos, we spotted another male at some distance. We wanted to know whether he would join the other males. We watched as he chose a position some way away from the rest and started scent marking by rubbing each side of his face on the ground. The area he selected for this was somewhat unfortunate in that the ground consisted of very dry hay; this became stuck to his face. The effort of trying to remove this was in vain, he sat down to contemplate his next move. (See photo)

Tony and I surmised that he had decided on a different strategy to other males. Perhaps he was not as smart or as good looking as the others; perhaps his foot stamping was not as emphatic…. But what is a female really after? Of course, a male with a GSOH! So we named him “Comedy Dave” (hail his alter ego on the Chris Moyles breakfast show)

Let’s now fast forward our story to the evening. Back at the camp with drinks before dinner, you’ll find yourself sitting around a fire, mulling over the day’s events. It’s very dark so you see nothing on the plains around you. We heard an alarm call, and then very quickly, another. Tony and Tyrone switched on their torches to sweep the surrounding area – now we were all alert.
Suddenly the air was thick with the sound of thundering hooves running past and in the torchlight we spotted the eyes of a lioness chasing the lechwe right across us. In a moment with a classic set piece of lion hunting, another lioness moved in from the other direction and without a sound; a lechwe was brought down and killed, only 100 mtrs from our fire. A male lechwe….. you may see where I’m going with this.

This was a totally unexpected addition to the evening and the boys at the camp quickly sprang into action to move us to the safety of the veranda and set up lights so we could see what was happening. We watched while a lion and a third lioness with cubs moved in on the kill and settled down to eat. We also decided to have our own dinner and left them to it. After dinner, we took our coffee and watched the progress of the lions’ feast.

In the morning the lions had moved on (although we saw a footprint by the fire, so clearly they came to have a nose around). Not a lot of lechwe was left, apart from a pair of horns. It would make a better story, although much more tragic for Dave, if I could say there was a pathetic twist of hay around the horns, but this is not true. So not every story can have a happy ending in life and death on the Busanga Plains, but I hear there’s a lechwe moral that Dave might have done well to remember…. It doesn’t pay to stand out from the herd.

Was it Dave? Who knows? He had a 1 in a 100 chance. I really hope not as I’d grown rather fond of him and Tyrone has promised he’ll look out for him (he may just be humouring me – he’s a nice guy). We will never forget our evening and we are amazed to have had the fantastic privilege to witness to an event like this.

SIGHTINGS REPORT AND PHOTOS FROM BUSANGA KAFUE GUIDED SAFARI

2010-09-22T23:58:00.000-07:00

Well what a couple of weeks we have been enjoying out here in the Zambian Bush. Our first guided trip in to the Kafue was simply fantastic not just because the guests all had a great time enjoying our

informal style of safari and staying in the camps which we carefully choose as our bases but because the wildlife sightings were varied and interesting. From Ants to Elephants the Kafue did not disappoint. The first afternoon in the bush we took a gentle boat trip on the Kafue and immediately the camera's were clicking as Elephants

crossed the river in front of us, of course Hippos were everywhere and the birding was spectacular, with the sun low in sky as we approached camp we spotted a Leopard at the river side.
The Kafue is a beautiful place.
The antelope species sightings alone included : Roan both in breeding herds and bachelor's sparring , Red Lechwe in vast numbers on the Busanga plains, Puku, Oribi, Impala, Sable, Hartebeest, Wildebeest who were giving birth all over the place, Kudu, Common duiker and Sharpe's Grysbok. A highlight for me and the guests was an encounter with a large herd of Elephants on the plains as for many years Ele's would only cross at night to avoid human contact but now with careful approaches they remain on the plains, sightings were exciting and interesting with a number of mock charges as we approached from protective family members but when dust settled we saw family ties being reinforced and sat quietly listening to the low rumbles as they communicated with each other.

Whilst staying with Tyrone at his camp on the Plains we had one of those special nights, which started with an encounter with the Elephants, then a great sighting of Serval, then back in camp for a bucket shower and drinks around the camp fire as we chatted I noticed a Lechwe alarm call in the darkness close by as i reached for my torch a Puku alarm and as the beam reached the plain we could see antelope running passed just 20 mtrs away with a Lioness in chase I just had time to turn to see another Lion spring from the grass ahead of the stampede taking down a poor Lechwe, we retreated a little way to out dinning room from where we ate dinner with a spotlight

on the Lions as the feed very close by. The week ended with days at Hippo Lodge where the riverine woodland provided a contrast to the plains and where we encountered not just Lions (from landrover & on walking safaris) but Buffalo and a huge Croc on her way back to river from her nest site. The birds here are always varied from raptors to finches another highlight was a spectacular pennant winged nightjar.

If you would like to know more about this safari or join one of our safaris to the Kafue please feel free to get in touch
Regards Tony McKeith

NEWS ! Wild Black Rhino Sighted In Zambia

2010-08-31T01:06:00.000-07:00

We are so happy to be able to pass on a report of a sighting of truly wild Black Rhino in Zambia's remote North Luangwa, spotted by a guide from Mwaleshi and guests , they first thought they were looking at Elephants in the distance but soon realised they were looking at a mother & Calf, naturally they were massively excited and reported the sighting immediately.
These rare Black Rhino were last seen in Zambia in the very early 1980's when they were poached to extinction. Since 2003 a re introduction program was set up by the Frankfurt Zoological Society who brought back Rhino to a 300 km sq boma in the north, north Luangwa. Living wild the Rhino suffered some natural deaths but also 3 completely wild calves have been born, monitored closely in the boma the Rhino now appear to have moved out in to the great wilderness and this sighting marks a change for the north , safaris will not be the same again. We have always promoted the north as one of the last great wilderness destinations, an achingly wild place with hardly any visitors yet dramatic wildlife. We have lots of experience of safari in Zambia and the Luangwa valley as a whole, we often use Mwaleshi camp as our base in the North and also the few small camps which operate here, so please feel free to get in touch to discuss a safari to the North & South Luangwa.

This photo was taken by Tony on a visit to the Boma in 2005

Amazing safari facts and a quiz to test your self.

2010-08-29T02:57:00.000-07:00

Did you know:

We know Lions mate often and for a (relatively!) long time. But why ? Well it turns out that the Lioness has evolved a strategy which requires her to mate continuously for a several days before she is able to actually conceive. The reason is that for the Lioness to be sure the male Lion is suitably strong and dominant to pass on his genes and so to produce equally strong healthy cubs, the male lion effectively proves his worth by being able to physically mate for a long period and also during that period his dominance is proven by his ability to fend of the attentions of other males who may also be attracted to the Lioness in season.

Why not test yourself with a fun and informative safari bush quiz click here to visit our friends at Remote Africa with who we offer some fantastic walking and bush camp safaris in remote parts of Zambia. click here http://www.remoteafrica.com/quiz.asp
Let us know how well you do.!

WE HAVE ADDED VIDEOS

2010-08-16T05:32:00.000-07:00

We have added some interesting video features to bring you
even more info that may help you decide on a destination for your next safari.

Visit our Kenya - Lewa Conservancy safaris and our featured Norman Carr safaris in Zambia and

enjoy the sights and sounds of these two great safari destinations.

NEW CHOICE OF SET DATE & GUIDED SAFARIS

2010-07-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.busangasafari.co.uk/categories/set-date-guided-safaris-in-zambia.html

With so much interest in our guided/escorted safaris we have decided to add a few more to the list to give our guests more choice. We sticking to only offering safaris that provide something unusual and special. Our guests can expect great wildlife in some wonderfully remote and wild places, like the North Luangwa and the Kafue in Zambia.

Each safari is escorted from the moment you arrive iat destination by one of our very experienced team who will ensure everything goes to plan but to also to help you get the most from your safari and be able to relax and concerntrate on enjoying the wilderness and varied wildlife we hope to encounter.

Please visit our website and we look forward to having you along on one of our set date escorted safaris.

LATEST NEWS & WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

2010-07-18T05:07:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to our short news update. We plan to try to add news and interesting sightings to this link on a regular basis.
There is a lot happening at the moment. The safaris which I am guiding in September are attracting a lot of bookings and are nearly all full but we are looking at adding new dates for this season and will certainly be adding more dates for next year, Set date & Guided safaris will be a big part of our future plans including Green season safaris in Zambia. We will continue to add carefully picked and arranged new safaris which give our guests the opportunity to enjoy only really interesting and varied wildlife safaris.
Our very latest safari ideas include A safari to see the Great Wildebeest Migration staying in a temporary bush camp operated for us by the same team who provide camps to the film crews and photographers that come to the Mara and need good guides and access to the heart of the action. Also great value offered for a 10 night safari staying at 5 camps to explore the South Luangwa in Zambia, our guests rave about this safari and we think that doing this at the end of the dry season as the bush cries out for rain is an exceptional experience.

Have a look around our website for inspiration but do feel free to call to speak to us we are around 7 days a week and always happy to hear from you.

With the dry season beginning to settle in and more guests heading of on safari the reports of interesting and unusual sightings are starting to come in. Tyrone (our man in the Kafue) has been keeping us updated " Set off with guest for game drive in late afternoon, we spotted 3 Cheetah hunting Impala and watching close by were 2 Lionesses probably hoping to steal a kill and not far away Hyena watching the Lions !. Later I spotted a family of Bush Pigs these guys are usually so hard to find. Soon after we found a pair of mating Lions. Later with the spotlight I picked up a Leopard hunting a Puku he was relaxed but we kept distance and left him to it. Back to camp and amazingly we had Leopards mating outside Chalet 3 and if that was not enough 2 Lionesses passed right through camp after dinner for all to see..."
In Botswana The consistently high flood waters have helped to caused the Savute channel to continue to flow. This will mean game and predators will move into the drier areas adjacent to water as the dry season goes on and drama will unfold. Wild dog were the main focus of excitement this month. The guides in the Kwando concession have discovered the den site of a pack of four dogs, and nine puppies. The three adults were seen regularly on Kudu kills as they constantly hunted to feed the alpha female and her young. Guests have been lucky to have been able to visit and observe the interaction between dogs and puppies throughout the month. Lion were also extremely active in the region, and among individual sightings, a pride of 5 Lions and 2 cubs killed Warthog, Zebra and a Giraffe all within the space of three days! The first Buffalo herds have also begun to arrive from the wetlands to the north as the rainwater filled pans begin to dry out.

Good bye for now.

Tony

The Migration has arrived in Kenya. Stay in a real bush camp as used by film/TV crews .

2010-07-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

The crossing points on the Mara river have already started to see the first zebra and wildebeest herds push across drawn by the promise of fresh grazing. The noise and movement on the banks immediately alerted the crocs who wasting no time are taking there annual toll and the Cats are also beginning to see the start of the time of plenty. This is early for the migration to occur and very exciting time for visitors. This year we at Busanga are teaming up with a specialist mobile camping safari outfit who usually provide facilities for film crews (BBC ) visiting the Mara , and will be offering safaris for those who wants to avoid the crowds, staying in a real bush camp which will be built in a key location and will operate for just one month (Aug) before being dismantled , leaving no trace. We will keep you updated with a featured safari on our website and we will also be sending a news letter .
If you would like details sooner please call Tony +44 (0)1628 621685

EXTRAORDINARY THREE TUSK ELEPHANT SIGHTING

2010-06-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

While staying at Kwando's Nxai Pan camp, Stuart Arnold, a Botswana based professional photographer was amazed to spot an unusual elephant drinking at the waterhole at the front of the camp. Upon closer inspection it was discovered that the elephant carried an amazing 3 tusks!!

The tusks of an African Elephant grow continuously throughout their life - a bull elephant's tusks can grow up to 18 cm in a year. Tusks are an elephant's tool and they are used for a variety of tasks including digging for water and roots or to strip bark from trees.
All elephant's, like humans are either right- or left-handed, favouring a right or left tusk. The most often used tusk, is generally shorter due to wear and tear. While the majority of elephants have two tusks, occasionally individual elephants exhibit abnormal growth which can include additional tusks. Such examples are extremely rare. As one can see from the images, the elephant is a mature bull and therefore has managed to live a long life despite his unusual third tusk.

AFFORDABLE AFRICA. Refreshingly good value

2010-06-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

Now That is Refreshing.....

We have put together a selection of more affordable safaris, which use carefully chosen camps in key wildlife areas and like all of our safaris includes pretty much everything in the cost.

These are not budget discount or poor quality, just well planned and using slightly less upmarket camps, although some are what we call premier camps the others extremely comfortable but more , Real!

Botswana 6nts Kalahari Plains & Banoka (Delta) = US$3085 pp

Malawi 6nts Mvuu Camp & Mumbo Island (Lake Malawi )= US$2090 pp

Namibia 6nts Kulala Desert Lodge, Doro Nawas Namib, Andersson's Etosha = US$ 4595 pp

Zambia 6nts Lufupa, Kafue Np & Toka Leya Livingstone = US$2450 pp

All En suite, comfortable accommodation- Adventurous, nature-orientated, fun, cultural, historical focus- Supports wildlife research, embraces sustainability & local communities.

Very good value with no compomises, expect great camps and guides and wildlife etc etc....

You will find each safari on our website in the respective country / region but just click on these links to go direct.

This is why we do it. Our Guest Comments...

2010-06-04T02:26:00.000-07:00

"...Where next ?"
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HI TONY - WE'RE HOME !!!!! Well , once again, a fantastic time was had by all....
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I wanted to send my thanks to you for the brilliant time we had atKafunta, the Bush Camp and Kasaka. It exceeded my wildest dreams and Icannot stop talking about my experiences there. Absolutely everything youhad arranged for us ran so smoothly and the staff in the camps wereexcellent. Brilliant organisation and attention to detail and I cantwait for my next safari!!!! Many thanks again.
Patricia Richardson
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Tony, wow what can i say?
You listened and got it spot on... what an adventure, an adventure of a life time... still finding it hard to adjust to normal life, i.e. electrics and the bloody phone... all 3 camps were as you said, very different from each other, but all still as interesting and friendly... still couldn't believe just how awesome it was and the best experience ever!... and yes we will be returning without a doubt.
Thanks a million and hope to speak soon.
Barry & Netty
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Our visit to Tafika was a joy. We had the camp to ourselves for the first five nights and lived like kingsThe guiding and game viewing were superbIt was bad luck John Coppinger had gone to Durban - but at least I was spared the decision about the microlight flight - and it's a great excuse to go back again another time.I will keep an eye on your website for ideas for our next holidayMany thanks for organising our trip.Best wishes
The Stewarts
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" Back safe and sound after an amazing trip. Nkwali was magic – probably the best weeks wildlife I have ever experienced anywhere in the world. 7 leopard sightings in 7 days, including a male and a female on a kill in a tree, 15 lion, buffalo, hippo, crocs etc etc. The staff were amazingly helpful, professional, the food and service superb,and we didn’t really want to leave. The transfer flights were excellent and what a treat to be wafted through African airports and to have your own pilot. Overall an excellent experience and one which I would recommend without hesitation to anyone who will listen (and they are probably fed up with listening already). We look forward to planning our next trip – please keep in touch."
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"A massive thanks to you and all at Busanga for the most incredible trip... I'm back but actually not back really, all the time it's flashbacks and looking at people in the street and thinking they know NOTHING. What have you done to me? The wildlife was amazing, the people wonderful. Shall contact you again with regard to going somewhere else when I get my head round being back here.Thank you again.."
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Well Tony!
as you can tell we had the most wonderful time and we thank you so much for organizing it. Everything worked exactly to your planning, and the minor adjustments were easily made enroute. Cant wait to start looking into what we will be planning for next year.
Thank you once again, I will definitely recommend you to anyone else who is thinking of taking "the Africa Experience".
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Hi Busanga,
The Luangwa was just great , just as you said it would be "lion, lion everywhere and 100% addictive."
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Just to let you know that my family and I have returned safely from our safari to North Kafue with lots of photos and video. The staff everywhere were excellent . We saw 9 species new to us including oribi, spitting cobra, black mamba, bushbaby and porcupine.
Regards,
Robin
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Hi Tony,
I arrived there and back safely and the tour was fantastic. Saw loads of Lions and Black Rhino, Was a nice cool 41c on Sunday too! The scenery was out of this world and so hard to explain what it's like. I haven't sorted my pics yet but will hopefully do that later today. All the best Tel of Namibia !
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Hi,
I just wanted to say, MEGA THANKS... wow what a holiday... i'm still sorting out photos... we had a fantastic time... it was all that you promised an more... flight was ok too!
Thanks again guys,
Mel and Jade
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This is just to say how much I enjoyed my Busanga safari to Zambia.It was my Seventh African safari and it was equal to the best. The staff at camp were wonderfull and I got a few firsts , Pels fishing Owl -White backed night Heron, Penanet wingned nightjar. A memory remains of a female Ratel and young on a night drive.
Many thanks for organizing everything so well, it was much appreciated.
Best wishes,
Graham
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From the Newman family - seasoned Kenyan adventurers!
What can we say - that holiday you sorted for us was absolutely fantastic. Even on the drive from the airstrip to Lewa camp we were amazed at the number and variety of animals we saw - and it only got better and better. By day 2 we had seen the big 5 and all CLOSE UP - very close. We didn't believe it would get any better but it did - it just kept getting better. The walk in the wilderness was fantastic 12 masai warriors and 24 camels all to look after just us. Tracking 3 or 4 lions. we didn't get to see them but had an absorbing 2 hour hike through a gorge following their footprints.
Il Ngwesi was beautiful and the staff were so friendly, even moving us on the second evening so we could sleep in the poster under the stars - very romantic. Watching a family group of 9 lions in the headlights of the jeep in the dark is a very moving experience. All in all a truly wonderful and unforgettable holiday/experience which was beyond our dreams, and which we cant wait to repeat.
Thank you!
The Newman family

Wildlife Tracking Course, Botswana

2010-05-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

For the rawest, most exciting bush experience that one could wish for. . . We at Busanga are really excited about this safari as we feel it offers something special in the way of wildlife experiences and encounters. Tracking wildlife on foot is for most of us what dreams are made off, spending hours in the bush watching and listening, walking quietly, picking up hints that lead you with luck and patience to encounters with wildlife that you will remember for ever. This two-week experience does that, in a way that takes you back to the raw basics of life in the wild and provides you with a really in-depth understanding of the bush which is so hard to achieve on a shorter and more expensive safari holiday
This unique safari experience takes you in to the bush of Southern Botswana to learn the skills of the bush tracker on a two week safari amongst the big game and smaller creatures of this beautiful and wonderfully wild region. Aimed primarily at teaching you tracking skills whilst allowing you to spend time in the vast wilderness of the Tuli Block in Botswana; along similar lines as explorers once did in a bygone era. You will be constantly learning and you will have the opportunity to practice and test your skills as this is a very pro active experience, no sitting back you will be involved. You will be tested along the way but there are no exam papers or pressure to achieve , rather you are encouraged to enjoy the experience and learn as you go. The first week is orientated predominantly around track identifications as this is the first step in tracking. The second week sees every participant given the opportunity to lead the group in an attempt to track down a high-profile animal (elephant, leopard, lion, cheetah or hyaena). Coaching will be given to the tracker of the day assisted by our highly-skilled course leaders. You will be accompanied through out by a very well qualified professional guide with simply years of experience in Tuli and who will also be your tutor, these guys know so much it is amazing, they want to impart there knowledge and you can not fail to absorb there interest and enthusiasm for wildlife and the bush.

Visit our website for more info and available dates .http://www.busangasafari.co.uk/wildlife-tracking-course-botswana-.html

NEWS.. Busanga can arrange the best value bonded flights to fit with your safari

2010-05-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

NEWS... Best value fully bonded international flights available from Busanga safaris

Busanga safaris have built a great working relationship with Eton Travel one of the UK's leading independent travel agents and are able to arrange all of your international flights to coincide with your safari or wildlife tour using the very latest flight search and reservation systems and with complete financial security.
Giving you the best value from negotiated airline rates that only a top agent can offer, backed up with complete professional organisation and the financial security of using a fully bonded company.

Please let us know if you would like us to provide a quote for the International flights associated with your safari and we will be happy to help.

Tyrone's Plains Trip (Funny!)

2010-05-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

Hellooo,

Busanga yesterday, wow!

So we set off at 05:00 with supplies for the team looking after 'Plains Camp' during the rainy season. I took Ferrison and Botson along for support and for Botsons knowledge of the bush west of the plains, as I usually approach from the south and during the dry season. We took the western boundary road past tatayoyo gate and north to the plains. We had one broken fan belt to fix on route. We reached a point on the edge of the plains where the flood waters prevented any more progress by vehicle apprx 09:30. I Ask Ferrison how far to walk to camp, he points at Kapinga Island (about 5kms away) and says just past there a few kms. So we decide to leave our lunch on the vehicle as we have to get out and start wading. So off come the shoes and trousers, and after what felt like the longest 5km's ever and we reach Kapinga Island with water up to our chest in places. We see Lechwe (water loving antelope) practically swimming from us, toward the the tree line, that was our first clue!. We proceed past Kapinga Island into the next plain, following the 'road' which is a good 3/4 feet under water. Ferrison points at a very distant ant hill and says our camp is just a km past that. So we struggle on (with our 3 bottles of water), I have left my watch in the Landy (Land rover) as did not want it to get wet so not sure of time (all day). After a another couple of hours and with cuts to my legs from the grass starting to show we reach the last large plain to cross before camp (which was about 5km not 1km from the last ant hill!!) We try and shout to the guys in camp to come to us... they dont hear us. Between us and camp is a set of small rivers/gullies of flowing water. Ferrison decides this is to much and admits now that he doesn't swim, Botson does and I can and as we have taken literally hours to get to this point turning back is no option so we strip off to just our shorts and proceed to swim across these channels. We reach the other side of the channel expecting firm grass to walk on, we find floating grass, on top of more water. So what was meant to be a 2km walk to camp from there a war as we have to wade through some seriously sharp grasses. We finally reach 2 Fig Island, next to our camp. As we drag ourselves up on to the first bit of dry land far hours we hear a rustle in the long grass... A hippo!!! it is 10 meters from us and decides to charge, Botson and I run in different directions, luckily he goes for Botson (not lucky for Botson) and gets about 2 mtrs feet from him, Botson makes himself big and we are both now shouting to try and scare this thing... luckily it works and the Hippo trudges off in to the water... We are finally spotted by one of the staff at camp who sends a canoe for us to get to the boardwalk to camp. We get to the boardwalk, but it has suffered with being under flood water for months and so we fall through it, with only an agonizingly short distance to camp we have to wade once more through even sharper reeds and grasses (mixed with Hippo shit). We get to camp!! All this effort to tell the guys we have 4 bags of maize in our vehicle for them, which we will leave in the bush for them to collect. Turns out the other 3 workers were not even there, gone fishing in a dugout , well they are traditional fishermen!... The one chap who is around called Peter, wants me to see the camp, I feel like I need a doctor not a guided tour of my own camp but he is so nice and keen that I should see it I cant really just sit down as I want, now covered with cuts and insect bites on my bare white/red body (remember no clothes bar my pants since the swim). Camp is in a mess but that is to be expected after floods but what a spot, and I cant wait to get it set up for the season and make it home. I love this place (usually).... So now the small task of getting back to the vehicle! Now I am feeling fairly strong at this point in time, not bad considering its taken a good 5/6 hours to get here and the energy expended trying to do so, with no food all day and one bottle of water. So back in to the water and we trudge back past the Hippo and swam back across the rivers we get on to the plain towards Kapinga Island. It is here where my body decides to punish me for the lack of exercise over the last few months with muscle cramps and only(!) some 12 or so kms from the vehicle. Now my nakedness mixed with lack of food, energy and cramps are making life very hard (not to mention leeches ). After a very long and slow struggle back, we finally make it back to the vehicle around 17:00. I have never ever been so relieved to see a Land Rover, food or water in my life! and only another 4 hours drive to camp.

Next time will be to start building camp and Yes I will take a boat....

Pictures of my legs will come shortly.

Hope all is good with you.

Ciao for now,
Magoo

Roan Antelope- Smart but not that smart...

2010-05-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Roan antelope are a specialist species that are highly selective feeders. For this exact reason the roan has never been an abundant species, even though their numbers are today greatly reduced due to poaching and habitat degradation. They are generally not seen in large numbers anywhere and in fact are declining in many parts of their former wide range as a result of increased competition from other antelope species that are not as selective when it comes to feeding, and a variety of other factors.

Two exceptions to this are the Busanga Plains in Zambia's Kafue National Park and the plateau of the Nyika National Park in northern Malawi.

Some visitors to the Nyika plateau where we offer some guided safaris. Observed what was either smart feeding or a moment of experimentation?
you decide...
When a small herd was seen feeding close to camp. Two of the cows in the herd waded into the water of a dam and one of the animals actually lowered its head and the bulk of its neck under the water until even the horns were almost completely submerged!

After a few seconds the cow emerged from the water and then jumped out onto the adjacent bank before wandering away with the herd. I guess that she had been attempting to get at some underwater vegetation to eat. The Roan only tried once and having got a nose full of water,looking bedraggled and rather forlorn with her long Eeyore-like ears they herd ambled off for a more conventional feed.

WE HATE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS!!.

2010-05-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

With some times 40% being added to the cost of a safari for people who travel alone . We think it's unfair and often unnecessary. We already have loads of safari idea's on our website that dont charge single sup's and often arrange tailored trips where it can be avoided. We avoid single sup's when others charge it for the same property, How? because we can negotiate with camps and pass on the benefits.
So make sure that you dont pay more than you need and tell your friends you could be saving them a fortune and may be making it affordable.

JUST RELEASED: A set date safari, for max 6 guests, to the Luangwa valley, with Tony McKeith

2010-04-27T01:03:00.000-07:00

Departing London on the 15th September 2010, you will be met on arrival in Lusaka by Tony Mckeith who will escort you on an 8 night * safari to the game rich Luangwa valley where you will uncover the great diversity and populations of wildlife and birds that the valley is famed for. You will stay in two camps in two very different environments from where you will enjoy game drives during the day and at night in open vehicles with skilled guides. The Luangwa is the home of the walking safari and you will be taken of exciting and interesting walking safaris (gentle walks) in the company of expert guides and armed scouts.

These safaris are very popular for the great wildlife viewing potential and because the combination of lodge and bush camping makes for a real wilderness safari experience. Suitable for a first time safari or regular safari goers looking to get away from the main tourist routes. You will visit the best game viewing areas of the South Luangwa's Mfuwe and the remote mopane woodlands and drying river heaving with Hippo in the far south. Please feel free to call Tony for a chat about this safari. 01628 621685

.

NEW SET DATE & GUIDED SAFARIS AVAILABLE

2010-04-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

With a lot of the set date and small group safaris which we arrange filling up this year we have been looking at opportunities to arrange more safaris and very happily we have just made available new safaris which Tony will be lead to The Luangwa valley in Zambia starting on 1st & 16th September. These can be added to our Kafue safari which still has a few spaces left.
The aim is to really explore the South Luangwa to uncover its great numbers of game and especially it's for its Leopards and Wild dogs and ...
We also have 2011 dates available for the new Carnivore Reserch Safari and Liuwa Plains and ........Vist our set date idea's click here
Please visit our website or just get in touch and we can talk you through what to expect.

NEWS... Best value fully bonded international flights available from Busanga safaris

2010-04-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

Busanga safaris have built a great working relationship with Eton Travel one of the UK's leading independent travel agents and are able to arrange all of your international flights to coincide with your safari or wildlife tour using the very latest flight search and reservation systems and with complete financial security.
Giving you the best value from negotiated airline rates that only a top agent can offer, backed up with complete professional organisation and the financial security of using a fully bonded company.

Please let us know if you would like us to provide a quote for the International flights associated with your safari and we will be happy to help.

Botswana in March,Here is a sighting report from the camps we use on our Five Rivers Safari

2010-04-12T05:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a sighting report from the camps we use on our Five Rivers Safari.
Even in the green season Botswana is special. Contact Tony for more info on when and where to visit Botswana.

Lebala
A great month of game viewing on the savannahs of Lebala has yielded excellent predator viewing for our guests. A large variety of plains games species Is providing ample food for our resident Leopards, Lions, Cheetahs and Wild dogs. There is some concern for the smaller of the three packs of Wild dogs in the Kwando concession. Previously when sighted they had numbered six but now they number merely four individuals. It is not uncommon for skirmishes to break out with larger predators such as lions or hyenas so there is concern that two may have been killed in the fighting. Moreover, one of the remaining four dogs is heavily pregnant and awaiting a new denning site so cannot be an enormous help hunting. Wild dogs rely heavily on numbers for success on their hunts and the less animals the higher the chances of starvation. On one occasion this was highlighted when the four dogs pulled down a sub adult kudu only for one of them to badly sprain its leg and put it out of action for up to a week.
Lion sightings have also been good this month with the two males of the area being followed for several hours following a large herd of buffalo. The morning light revealed a successful hunt on a young buffalo that had been isolated and killed away from the formidable male ‘Dagga Boys’ of the herd.
Elsewhere, there was the unusual sighting of a pangolin. The only one of its kind for several months. Astonished onlookers snapped with their cameras while the shielded ant eater slowly made its way into the bush.

Lagoon Camp
Lagoon has had the glad tidings of new lions moving into the area. Four males and five females appeared late last month from the wilderness and seem to have taken up residence in the area. Guides are unsure as to where exactly they have come from although the likely answer would be from the stunning upper Kwando area or the vast wilderness of the west – western Kwando concession. We will certainly be hoping their residence in the area is a long and successful one!
The three cheetah brothers are still reining supreme through the Kwando and are a regular site stalking impalas in the woodlands. On one such occasion they had brought down an impala close to Lagoon camp and were then chased off by some spotted hyenas who were scavenging in the area.
Guests, guides and trackers alike have been entertained by the strong pack of seventeen wild dogs who are terrorising the neighbourhood at the moment. Almost every evening there is a fair chance that these hungry dogs will be on the move and after some fresh meat.
Away from the predators, we have seen several large herds of buffalo and elephant in the area which is quite unusual for this time of the year with such widespread rains in the woodlands. Many migrant birds have extended their stays due to the excellent rainy season and prolonged availability of food. However, it is likely that such migrants as Paradise Flycatchers, Woodlands kingfishers and Wahlberg’s eagles will be departing within the next month.

Kwara & Little Kwara
There have been vast arrays of wildlife at Kwara recently. Water channels familiar to guests have begun to rise by the boat station and airstrip while Kwara lagoon in front of the camp has already risen. The water levels will continue to rise over the next couple of months as the annual flood pushes through towards Xaxanaka and Khwai. This means that there has been an abundance of wildlife in new areas of Kwara concession including the legendary Tsum Tsum plains that are now home to large numbers of zebras, blue wildebeest, elephant and tssesebe.
The splintered coalition of seven lions have been busy harassing these multitudes of game including an excellent giraffe kill seen by some guests. They have also been busy spreading their seed with the local lionesses and many such mating scenes have been recorded by delighted guests.
The family of six cheetahs are now spending more time apart as the four cubs are now over a year old and will be readying themselves for life without their mother in the next few months. They are a constant terror to the areas smaller antelope like impala, duiker and steenbok.
We have also seen a pack of wild dogs to the northeast. They numbered seven animals and passed away into the Mopane woods to the north after failing to kill a kudu.
Guides picked up the very rare sighting of an aardvark (ant bear) close to the airstrip last week and watched the shy creature for over an hour before it head off into the surrounding thickets.

Tau Pan
Tau Pan’s resident Brown hyena has returned to its routine of an early morning drink at the water hole in front of the main area. Camp guides believe that they time their drinks not to coincide with the two big male lions who are also fond of a similar morning routine. After quenching his thirst the hyena then slips away into the thick bush, usually to the east of the camp.
On Phokuje Pan we have been fortunate to see a family of meercats (surricates) on several occasions. These highly gregarious bands are legendary for their bold approach to humans and fascinating group social structure. So far eight individuals have been identified.
Also on Phokuje Pan there have been excellent views of Cape eland antelopes. A herd of about thirty has been spotted quite a few times moving in and out of the area.
In close proximity we still have a female cheetah living with her two cubs and hunting from the large springbok population in the area.
Closer to the camp the blond and the dark maned lion coalition still rule the roost on Tau Pan. A total of six females have at times been seen in their company and one week three of the females were accompanied by three cubs. The lions in the area seem to single out gemsbok as their favourite prey but have also been seen hunting animals as diverse as the springbok or prickly porcupine!

Nxai Pan
Nxai Pan has witnessed some astounding cat viewing in the Park this March. Firstly, a female leopard has been seen on occasion with a young leopard cub walking from pan to pan and stalking the numerous springbok in the area. The mother is naturally very protective of the newest member of her family but some excellent shots have been taken of the youngster oblivious to the dangers around him!
Additionally, we have also had great sightings of a cheetah mother and her cub close to camp. The mother managed to chase down a springbok antelope right by the large Baobab infront of the camp Nxai Pan.
There are also plenty of lions in the area. One group of seven lions have been seen recently on a zebra kill and they have ventured close to the camp to drink from our water hole. That water has to be shared with some huge resident bull elephants who still dominate the view from the front porch.
Additionally, we have seen some good herds of eland in the area towards Khama-Khama Pan to the North-East. They are fairly shy but provide an excellent spectacle as they leap in front of the safari cars in front of the road.
As well as the excellent migrant birdlife we are still enjoying we have seen two fantastic sightings of a Stanley’s Bustard and Martial’s eagle hunting a White-faced Duck.

A rare chance to spend time with Ba aka pygmies

2010-04-07T07:51:00.000-07:00

Possibly the most unique safari expereince imaginable. I personally visited this region and although I came for the wildlife, which was it's self one of the most profound wildlife experinces of my life, I came away with memories of the beautiful Ba aka pymies, since then I have intended to offer a safari which spend as much time with the Ba baka as the wildlife, although it is hard to seperate the two as they are so closely connected through the hunting and gathering habbits of the Ba aka. This trip will spend time in the tropical rainforests of central Africa with an extraordinary group of people, the Ba'Aka Pygmies and will journey to see some of the planets most incredible wildlife.
You will find details on our website and if you are interested in more detail please feel free to get in touch.

Tony

Jealous ? me.... no way - not a bit .... well ok, a little

2010-03-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

jealous ? me.... no way not a bit .... well ok, a little. Alright yes I am .

Tyrone's latest stint in the office here in Blighty finished on Wednesday when he flew south to Zambia to base himself at the "Plains camp" in the beautiful Kafue National Park up on the Busanga Plains where our company first arranged safaris a decade ago. Tyrone will be managing this small but very comfortable tented bush camp in his enthusiastic way hosting & guiding guests as they explore the dramatic and vast open grasslands, home to great herds of Red Lechwe & Buffalo and their eternal enemies, Lions. For the next month or so it is a waiting game and Tyrone will be found at Mukambi (base camp for the Plains) working hard on his spotting skills for the benefit of guests staying at this all season river lodge. As soon as water levels drop Tyrone will be heading (wading) to the figtree island where camp will be built and although Comms will be hard to establish to begin with we will be adding updates to our blog / website as the season progresses. We already have some set date safaris arranged for September and itineraries which will visit the North Kafue to stay at the Plains camp and which also explore the wood land and rivers of the North Kafue. This is real africa with few other people for miles and great wildlife. Get in touch with Tony or Clare for details of set dates and itineraries.

The Busanga Plains with Tyrone McKeith

2010-02-22T07:19:00.001-08:00

A safari to the Busanga Plains with Tyrone McKeith.

Special Offer only £1450 5 nights 2 nights Mukambi 3 Nights Plains Camp inc transfers all Inc

Other itineraries available check our website or get in touch for a tailored itinerary.

The Busanga plains is a very special place, for much of the year the vast plains are mostly submerged below seasonal flood waters, dotted with islands of acacia and fan palms like desert islands in an ocean. And then in may / june when the waters subside a vast open grass land plain is revealed , dissected in places by steams and gullies, impossible to navigate with out experience and local knowledge. The lush grazing draws great herds of game on to the plains and now the islands become the home of Lions who scan the plains for game. The variety of wildlife on the Busanga Plains is surprising with opportunities to see some very unusual Antelope including with luck, Sitatunga & Sable. And some wonderful predators, Lion of course but also Wild dog and Leopard, Serval and may be just may be Caracal!. And the Birdlife? Wattled Crane, swirling towers of open billed stork, and in the grass Coucal and rosy throated long claw. And what wont you see? other people ! the plains still only have a small number of camps in the whole 750km2 and the number of visitors are minimal.

This year we at Busanga Safaris are on a mission to encourage you to visit the beautiful Kafue and the Busanga Plains and spend some time just getting to know this place. To add to your safari experience Busanga Safaris very own Tyrone McKeith will be based in what is his "Favourite Place" far up on the Busanga at 'The Plains Camp' this small but very comfortable tented bush camp sits on an island of Figtrees away even from the other camps on the plains and in a prime wildlife location.

Tyrone's enthusiastiasum and passion for wildlife is well known and his period as manager at 'Island Bush camp' in the South Luangwa last year which he took up with in days of graduating from University with a degree in Wildlife Conservation. drew many compliments and the beginning of a recognition which will see him follow in the steps of some of the best known in the safari game.

We have a choice of safari ideas which can include a longer stay (7 days) at the Plains Camp or which incorporate some other hand picked camps in other area's of the Kafue such as Hippo Lodge which provide the visitor with a well rounded Kafue safari experience.

We have space available on our September Kafue Safari. but can arrange dates to suit you, with some periods of August seeing camps in the Kafue/busanga already filling up we would encourage you to enquire early.

Golden Eagles Breeding

2010-02-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

Whilst in Spain getting the house ready for our short break walking and birding
visitors escaping the weather in the UK. Clare has been keeping one eye always to the sky above the valley scanning for the resident Golden Eagles who soar on the ridges.
And on the 19th Clare spotted a pair of Eagles display flying with in sight of the house, they then settled on the ridge and were seen mating.
Now that is a rare sighting...!
Tony, Clare or our man in Spain 'Jules' will be happy to host you on short break visits to explore this areas birding and wildlife. You could fit in Golden Eagles and Iberian Lynx in just a week..
Contact Tony who will be happy to help you arrange a trip to the Valley where you can stay in our village house and enjoy the beauty of the area, makes a fantastic base for a Summer holiday away from the crowds.

Availability going fast

2010-02-11T11:14:00.000-08:00

What a difference a year makes.
Interest in safari travel is showing
a marked improvement over last year
and some small camps are likely to
fill more quickly in 2010.
With a great choice of suggested safaris
and new itineraries.
If you had thought about a safari in
2010 now is the time to get planning,
there are still savings to be made and
Busanga Safaris will always try to avoid
single supplements. Contact us for more details...

Meet the Lions

2010-01-30T03:29:00.000-08:00

Guides at Porini Lion Camp and Mara Porini Camp who guide our guests during our PORINI WILDLIFE SAFARI have completed training on predator ecology and identification which will provide invaluable information on the lion and cheetah populations in the Olare Orok and Ol Kinyei Conservancies adjacent to the Maasai Mara. Within the safety of the conservancies, lion numbers have increased to 51 in Olare Orok and 19 in Ol Kinyei. These healthy prides of lions with their many cubs appear to have taken up permanent residency within the conservancies. Their food supply is plentiful and they are often seen hunting and socializing a short distance from the Porini Camps.
Profiles on the cheetah families and the individual lions and their prides are available in camp and in each vehicle. PORINI WILDLIFE SAFARI guests now have the opportunity to practice their lion identification skills and gather data regarding the health and habits of these magnificent animals.
Adding an extra dimension to what is a very varied and interesting safari which uses some very comfortable and traditional safari camps.
Have a look at the safari in more detail on our website. These are small camps and so numbers are limited,book early!

2010 the year of the Set departure & Guided Safari

2010-01-28T02:18:00.000-08:00

We are seeing a lot of interest in our set departure and escorted safaris for 2010.
With firm dates set for safaris to Zambia and Zimbabwe we expect to add more dates
and more destinations as the year goes on. Each safari is small group with just a maximum of 6 guests frequently we will go with just 4.
Guided from start to finish, your guide will certainly enhance the safari giving a deeper insight into the areas we visit and maximizing the chance of great wildlife encounters and with your guide handling everything there is nothing to think about apart from enjoying the experience.
Check out the website for our Set date / guided safaris or if you have an idea of where you want to go and would like to be guided why not get in touch and we will put together a guided trip just for you.

Iberian Lynx photo

2010-01-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hi All
I thought you would like to share in one of my life's unforgettable experiences with the world's rarest cat - Iberian Lynx.
After almost knocking the animal over we watched astonished as it nonchalantly padded it's way parallel to the car (5-6m away) and then dropped down an embankment. We got out and again watched it through binoculars for the next half an hour as it walked slowly away through the undergrowth before coming to rest right out in the open. It was incredible and more so because my camera has been going faulty the last couple of days and I had just two goes to get one shot, which under the circumstances I am extremely proud of - hope you like it too.
Take care and good luck for 2010 to you all.
Cheers Jules

Iberian Lynx - 2 in 2 days!!

2010-01-21T02:42:00.000-08:00

Our man in Spain Jules Sykes is currently guiding a group on a short excursion to find Lynx in Andalucia. On his first day the group encountered their first Lynx, what a start! Day 2 (today), not to be out done by the great start Jules and the group had another Lynx sighting in this beautiful mountain area, this time from just 10 metres away! Pictures will hopefully come through soon...

To be part of this why not join one of our short excursion trips to Spain and you too could be face to face with the Lynx's of Andalucia...

check
http://www.busangasafari.co.uk/categories/out-of-africa/safaris-in-spain.html for more info or call Tony to for a chat!

Zimbabwe - A great safari destination

2010-01-16T07:50:00.000-08:00

Zimbabwe - A Great safari destination

As Zimbabwe begins to come back in to consideration as a safari destination
we at Busanga Safaris decided that the best way to encourage visitors to return was to put together a small selection of safari ideas that take in the key wildlife areas, and to ensure that you get the very best from your safari these trips will be privately guided throughout by Doug Macdonald , our man in Zimbabwe.
We hope that you are inspired by these safari ideas to Zim and look forward to hearing from you.

This is what Doug has to say:

I write this short explanation on the current circumstances in Zimbabwe from the point of view that it is my country of birth which I am proud of , I live here in Harare with my wife and two children. I do hope to welcome you to this country and to guide you all the way to impart my local knowledge and love of the African bush and all that makes it so special to me.Over the past years Zimbabwe has been in the news for all the wrong reasons and as a result of this since 2000 there has been a huge decline in International tourism to this country. However, although we can understand the reasons why people have chosen not to travel to Zimbabwe, those people that have visited the country have been hugely rewarded with National Parks still full of wildlife, quality guides and very few other people to disturb their safari experience.
Recent times have bought a new set of dynamics to this beautiful country and a new found economic stability which has helped immeasurably. Linked to this economic stabilization is the politics of the country which is also changing constantly as we move to what we hope to be a much brighter future. It is obviously not perfect at present but I can tell you that those travellers who do travel to Zimbabwe will be amazed by its beauty, wildlife and fantastic people who will do all they can to make your time here comfortable and memorable.
Doug...

Wildlife Moments

2010-01-09T03:53:00.000-08:00

A limited collection of great value, unique, high quality wildlife photos are avaiable for sale.
Follow the link on our new 'Wildlife Moments' page, not to be missed!

Unexpected Visitor at Tubu Hide, Okavango Delta

2010-01-08T02:05:00.000-08:00

The Jao Concession of the Okavango Delta is a remote and beautiful area where wildlife sightings are often exciting and unexpected. However! On New Year's day guests on their evening drive were arriving at their sundowner spot when all of a sudden one of the passenger enquires "Is that a stuffed toy on the hide?". Alas it was not, and to the great surprise (although not as great as if they had discovered it face to face!) a magnificent male Leopard was relaxed on the hide and enjoying the sun setting himself, rather selfishly. Sightings are not always this easy, but what a great way to start the new year!

Liuwa Plains - 'The Last Lioness'

2010-01-04T01:52:00.000-08:00

If you are after that bit of adventure and fancy visiting a place where only a few privileged visitors do, then check out our Liuwa Plains safari. This remote and stunning national park in the South West of Zambia is also the base for the National Geographic Wild documentary ‘The Last Lioness’ (shown on 30th January). The documentary is testament to this fascinating place with its vast herds of migrating wildebeest and enormous clans of hungry Hyeana to the story of Lady Liuwa, the last lioness of the plains. We have trips to visit this special place for 2010, leaving in May, June, November and December. If you are interested in visiting Liuwa Plains then feel free to contact us at Busanga Safaris.

http://www.busangasafari.co.uk/liuwa-plains-safari-2.html

The Congo's lowland Gorillas just got easier to reach

2009-12-28T07:19:00.000-08:00

With experience,knowledge and planning our man in the Congo has come up with a plan to get our clients in to the key wildlife hot spots of the Central African Rep & Congo (Brazzaville)more quickly and easily. For 2010 we will be starting our safaris in Bangui from where we fly to Bomassa and then just a reasonably short drive to the first camp. Full details of these incredible trips of a life time to the encounter the rarest and most wonderful wildlife and people on earth follow the links on our website, Tony has lead clients on safaris to this region and would be very happy to answer your questions and tell you more about the safaris.

Iberian Lynx close encounter

2009-12-22T02:28:00.000-08:00

Our Man in Spain (Jules)recently returned from guiding a small group of clients in search of the Iberian Lynx and managed to get a great sighting of a Lynx which was spotted at around 6o mtr, Jules managed to get a few photos which are wonderful as they are of a completly wild Lynx , most photos are of captive animals. Contacty us if you would like to join one of these interesteing Wildlife/birding short breaks, we have dates available in Feb .

Kwetsani's Chacma Baboons are Opportunistic Carnivores

2009-12-19T04:37:00.000-08:00

Tony vsisted Kwetsani in October and we have plans to build this fantasic lodge in to our safari plans for 2010. .
The chacma baboon (Papio ursinus), the largest and most common of all baboons, is the only species found in Botswana. Chacma baboons live in troops averaging between 20 and 50 members. On Kwetsani Island there are presently two large troops, numbering around 80 animals in total.

Kwetsani also hosts large herds of red lechwe, which are the most common antelope found in this region. Herds of 100 - 200 lechwe can be seen grazing on the floodplains in front of Kwetsani Camp and quite often these two species can be found intermingling quite happily as they forage.

During a morning game drive on Kwetsani's northern floodplains, guests George, Nancy and Jaques, guided by OP, were observing a troop of baboons weaving in and out of a large herd of lechwe, whilst foraging for insects. What appeared to be an idyllic early morning setting suddenly became considerably less idyllic. A young sub-adult lechwe, lying on the periphery of the herd, was suddenly set upon by a large male baboon. The animal was so startled that there was no opportunity for an escape. Guests watched in horror as the large baboon proceeded to rip chunks of meat from the antelope whilst it was still alive. The most amazing thing of all was that, although the animal was whinnying in distress, the rest of the herd appeared to be oblivious to its plight and simply moved off slightly and carried on grazing as if nothing was happening.

Although it is not uncommon for baboons to prey on small mammals, it is unusual to see a baboon attack a sub-adult antelope which, quite possibly, weighed as much as the baboon itself. OP has suggested that perhaps the animal had been injured and this is what attracted the baboon's attention in the first place. Baboons have an incredibly advanced sense of smell, as well as very large canine teeth because they are carnivorous. The canine teeth, which can be as long as 5cm (2 inches), are used to defend themselves and can quite easily inflict a deep wound in a predator. If the lechwe had been injured and bleeding, it is quite possible that the baboon would have been attracted by the smell of blood, sidled over to observe the animal and, being an opportunist, made a grab at the lechwe which gave little resistance due to its injury. One morning we observed a young teenage baboon making an opportunistic grab at the leg of a young bushbuck while they were both foraging close to each other.

The chacma baboon is described by Jonathan Kingdon (The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals) as "an opportunistic omnivore with a preference for bulbs, roots, shoots, seeds or fruits. Invertebrates, small vertebrates, seashore life, fungi and lichen are eaten as and when available. Crops (maize, tomatoes, citrus and root crops) are raided in settled areas. Lambs and smalls stock are taken in some ranching areas".

It is very interesting to note that over the past two years, staff and guests at Kwetsani have witnessed baboons killing and eating newborn bushbuck on three occasions. On another occasion a guest reported seeing the troop of baboons "hunting" - as she described it, a sub-adult bushbuck. This incident occurred at the height of the flood this year and it was suggested that the baboons might have been experiencing difficulty finding food on the island. This is a possibility, but it is also interesting to note that the baboons living in this area are well-adapted to this wet environment and are quite accustomed to crossing large bodies of water in order to get to other islands if the food source in their territory is becoming scarce.

The chacma baboons on Kwetsani Island have also been observed killing and eating baby vervet monkeys and Smith's bush squirrels.

It is uncertain what studies have been conducted in the floodplains, but Richard Estes reports that in South Africa baboons can become major predators of young sheep and goats. This behaviour is normally practiced by large male baboons and they normally don't share their prey. It would be difficult to establish, as a percentage, how frequently these baboons prey on other mammals but it would appear as if the Kwetsani baboons have developed a definite taste for fresh venison.

If you are3 interested in a stay at Kwetsani or want to know more about the Delta contact Tony he will be happy to tell you all you need to know.

Lounge Lizard Lions at Busanga Bush Camp

2009-12-11T01:09:00.000-08:00

On 20 October at about 08h00 one of the adult male lions from the Busanga Pride from the camp. Was moving directly towards Camp. Nothing unusual in this as Busanga Bush Camp does after all form the core of this pride's territory.

He continued walking straight past the main area and down the path to the viewing deck about 10 metres away from Staff and guests. For the next few hours he alternated between lying on the pathway and walking 5 metres into the open plains and lying there. Around mid-morning he was joined by one of the pride lionesses and her three cubs. They followed the same route past the main area and went to lie in the thicket next to the viewing deck.

Later in the day when it started getting really hot, the male moved up onto the viewing deck! This was presumably to take advantage of the breeze, something this pride often does in the fig trees dotted across the plains. He lay here all afternoon, for all the world behaving like the camp had long been deserted and reclaimed by nature. It is perhaps something this pride learnt in the wet season when the camp is closed, since the first sighting of this behaviour came earlier in the year when the camp team found four lionesses from the pride lying there when the island was still inaccessible due to high water levels.

In the early evening the male and female moved off and left the three cubs essentially in camp. The youngsters moved onto the helicopter landing pad and played with wild abandon on this open area before wandering off into the night slightly out of camp.

This is why we love the Busanga ......

The Gorillas of the Congo

2009-12-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

You can read Tonys account of a safari to the Congo by visiting
Wildlife extra the leading wildlife online news site. http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/safaris/congo-gorillas.html

Also check out Tyrones article on the Zambia's Kafue National park and it's wildlife.
http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/safaris/kafue-busanga.html

Lions & Giants

2009-12-08T05:57:00.000-08:00

For decades the Savuti lion pride on the western boundary of the Chobe National Park in Botswana has ruled supreme. This pride, numbering up to 40 individuals, has made the unique practise of hunting elephants their specialty. Lions And Giants is the story of a few breakaway lionesses and a group of elephants who are forced to leave Savuti and travel north to the Chobe River.
Keep an eye on the Animal Planet channel on sky for a dramatic and brilliantly filmed documentary, first shown on 5th Dec knowing Animal planet I am sure this will be repeated many times.

SECRET CREATURES OF JAO

2009-12-05T04:48:00.000-08:00

Jao is an area of the Okavango Delta, a jewel of crystal clear streams and lush Papyrus grass and home to great herds on Lechwe antelope, Elephants , Buffalo and Lions who have adapted to this watery environment to take advantage of the great numbers of game. Tony has just returned from Jao and for next season we will have created several safaris which visit Jao and northern Botswana on interesting and exciting wildlife journeys.
Keep an eye open for a new TV series on Animal Planet which explores Jao and its wildlife, "be prepared to fall in love" this place is beautiful.

2009-12-05T04:38:00.000-08:00

LIONS AND GIANTS

UK PREMIERE ONE-OFF TV show on Animal PLanet
SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER AT 7PM

For decades the Savuti lion pride on the western boundary of the Chobe National Park in Botswana has ruled supreme. This pride, numbering up to 40 individuals, has made the unique practise of hunting elephants their specialty. Lions And Giants is the story of a few breakaway lionesses and a group of elephants who are forced to leave Savuti and travel north to the Chobe River.Our safaris to Norther Botswana explore these areas and provide the chance to see first hand the struggle for life that is living in the bush.

News !!! Our new website is live...

2009-12-04T00:49:00.000-08:00

We are really looking forward to the next safari season. We have
been working really hard in the bush and in the office this year to
bring together some exciting new safaris for 2010.
We have stuck to our principles of only offering safaris which offer
great wildlife in wonderfully wild places, we also thought about how
you might like to experience the bush and have created a selection
of special interest safaris to compliment our suggested safari
ideas, these will appeal to the wildlife enthusiasts, keen birder,
adventurer, walker, artist and even fishermen. Wildlife does not
respect boundaries and so we decided that we shouldn't either, our
new 'Out of Africa' section has some interesting alternative ideas.
And the best bit is that we have a great new website which is easy
to use and gives all the information and photos you could want in
just a few clicks, to give you an idea of what you can expect.

We really hope you enjoy the site and that you find something to
inspire your next safari.

We are available 7 days a week and always happy to hear from you.

What a Day !! Botswana

2009-11-27T01:56:00.000-08:00

As if a morning watching A leopard tree it's kill and then Flying low over the Okavango Delta was not enough for we arrived at Kwetsani deep in the Delta to encounter Elephants fighting in front of Camp. But that was just the first act ! Dinner was interupted first by the sight of Millions of Macro termite hatching like a blizzard and then with out warning the night sky lit up and illuminated the bush as a Meteorite tore thru the atmosphere above Southern Africa in a once in a life time display.
What a Day !!

Balloons over the Busanga

2009-11-23T06:41:00.000-08:00

It is now possible to take a balloon safari over the Busanga Plains (Kafue National Park, Zambia)stay with us at Busanga Bush camps for more than 3 nights next year and you will be offered a complimentary Balloon flight across the Busanga Plains.

The Selinda Lions

2009-11-23T06:32:00.000-08:00

The Selinda Lions are in turmoil with New males moving in to the area there is plenty of roaring at night and the old boys Silver Eye and his buddy are
having tokeep an eye open at all times. Tony will be updating Busanga Safaris face book page with a new gallery from Botswana very soon.
Enjoy

The rains have come

2009-11-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Rains have come to the Zambezi Valley and the temprature dropped by 18 deg ! so now the heat is a little less (at least for now) it is hummid and slippery underfoot. Great !!

Tyrone's back from the bush

2009-11-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

Tyrone has returned to the UK after a marathon 4 months on safari in Zambia and a quick trip to Malawi. With some great experiences and wildlife encounters under his belt and some new safari ideas which will soon appear on our new website.

Promo Video introduction to Busanga

2009-10-30T04:28:00.000-07:00

Cheer yourself up with a look at our new promo video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qkxsl2ZztMY which will be attached to our new
website in around mid Nov.

Enjoy
Tony

So this is our first Busanga Blog

2009-10-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hello from the Busanga Office in the UK.

We have so much going on it is hard to know what to start with.
With a new web site under construction , due to be ready in mid November we have been making extra effort to put together some great new safaris and wildlife trips.

Tyrone is on his way from Malawi to Zambia having been visiting new areas of interest and getting to know what our clients can expect to see and where is best to stay.
Tyrone has been running a camp and looking after clients in the bush since July when he graduated Uni with his degree in Wildlife Conservation.
I (Tony) have been all over the place this year with n extended safari from May to July during which time I escorted our clients on safaris and also and managed a safari bush camp in one of our most popular destinations , The South Luangwa national Park. In between visits I have been to rural Spain to oversee the renovations of our Spanish house which will be used as a base for our clients to enjoy some exciting Wildlife / Birding short breaks. These new trips will include journeys in search or the incredibly rare Iberian Lynx and Iberian Wolf, as well as amazing bird watching with Golden Eagles amongst a myriad other birds and small mammals.
We have teamed up with a great Tiger expert and photographer Pete Cooper to offer fully escorted trips to the very key Tiger areas and with a 100% success rate and years of experience our clients are assured of great photo opportunities and culturally interesting trips.

Please follow our blogs for updates and news and look out for our new look website from 15th Nov WWW.BUSANGASAFARI.CO.UK

Bye for now.
Tony