Rising over the African earth, the above rings true. A collection of breath catches in the folds of the hot air balloon, excitement elevating with smooth ascent. Surrounded by silence and the vast expanse below, disconnected from the world; but at one with the elements. The option to experience a safari from a hot air balloon is an invitation to commit poetry. Floating elegantly above the world, gazing down on the deposited stories and paths of wildlife, taking it all in, without leaving a trace. “Why is it you can never hope to describe the emotion Africa creates? You are lifted. Out of whatever pit, unbound from whatever tie, released from whatever fear. You are lifted and you see it all from above.” – Francesca Marciano
Camp Kuzuma in Botswana celebrates this type of safari experience. From riding the roads on a game drive to riding the wind in a hot air balloon, guests are encouraged to suspend their usual ideas of a safari, spending time in the wild in a more connected state of mind. Camp Kuzuma is situated within the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), on the borders of both the Chobe and Hwange National Parks. Reflecting the ethos of conservation and eco-tourism, the camp offers an off-the-grid safari experience with access to nationals parks with abundant wildlife, and pristine Kazuma Forest Reserve. A prolific elephant haven, whose ancient paths and corridors interconnect with the lodge, can be seen from the elevated wooden walkways, accommodating their migratory routes.
In Zimbabwe, Nantwich Lodge, Hwange has similar approach to immersive activities, although descending from air to earth. Treading with mindful steps, led by an experienced guide, guests walk the paths in a personal encounter with the bush and its wildlife on daily walking safaris. Submerged in nature, senses heightened in awareness, a walking safari is the epitome of intimacy – truly connecting with nature.
With bare feet rooted to the wood of East Africa, and eyes upon the legendary Zambezi, the dhow experience in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, articulates presence and mindfulness. Raising its mast and sail to capture the wind, the Zambezi Truth sunrise or sunset voyage once again encapsulates the tranquillity of connection, linking guests to nature, this time through the element of water. Sailing along the channels between the Zimbabwe and Zambian national parks provide the perfect platform for a unique game viewing experience.
At the end of the day, as the dust settles with the heat, a fire is sparked to greet twilight. Guests gather beneath the stars, ready to share stories around the campfire, an African tradition. Ignited with tales of immersion in nature, chatter rises into the evening with the warmth of shared experiences. An immersive safari is a sensory explosion. Spending time amidst the elements will leave the trails and stories of each encounter poetically inscribed in memory, as your fifth sense of physical and emotional connection comes alive through such enriching journeys. Our eco-lodges and experiences in Africa’s pristine wildernesses are committed to responsible tourism which allow you to tread lightly on the earth as you immerse yourself in the elements and restore your relationship with the natural world. Our five night Chobe & Hwange Hideaway encompasses the ideals of an such safari experiences.
A diverse exploration of Zimbabwe and Botswana – enjoying the beauty of the bush by foot on guided safari walks, on 4-wheels in open safari vehicles, on the water with both a Chobe River Cruise and a Zambezi River Dhow Journey, and even in the air – with the option of a Hot Air Balloon trip in Botswana. With relaxed cancellation and booking terms for the remainder of the year, we look forward to facilitating your experience in nature, in your African element.
