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Wilderness Usawa Serengeti: The Mobile Safari That Follows Nature

The luxurious solar-powered mobile camp is designed to leave no trace on the landscape.

By Andrew Harris

“They killed it here”– the Afrikaans lilt floats softly across the Serengeti sunshine. We’re 20 ft away, examining the latest drama of death and survival in the world’s most revered national park; the carcass of a wildebeest, brought down by lions the night before, springing out of the darkness with a feral ferocity and the inevitability of death itself. It’s already been picked bone-white clean by hyenas.

Jean du Plessis (the name derives from Huguenot antecedents arriving in South Africa centuries earlier) stands over in the yellowy-green grass, now daubed a bright and fresh-looking red, flattened down as if the scene of a recent picnic, which in a way it was. Just not the potato salad kind. Killed there, dragged here, and another skeleton added to the many scattered across the savannah-like pebbledash in a constant reminder that this is where predator and prey have conducted their business for millennia.

We’re out on a morning walk from Usawa, the newly debuted mobile camp of upscale safari operator, Wilderness , for whom du Plessis is regional director. A pioneer of walking safaris , he likes, wherever possible, to clamber out of the ubiquitous 4WDs and into the wild.

Getting up close and personal with the kind of creatures responsible for the extremely “ex” wildebeest at our feet, however, requires a rare degree of knowledge, skill, and experience. So, we also have Chris, long-term Tanzanian colleague of Jean, carrying a large-caliber rifle capable of stopping a recalcitrant rhino in its tracks, and a Serengeti ranger, looking like he’s straight out of special ops, brandishing an AK47.

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Encapsulating a luxury experience within this sublime slice of unadulterated raw nature is a tall order that du Plessis, who’s spent 27 of his 49 years here, chaperoned A-list celebrities, and featured in documentaries, fills with ease.

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Six tents accommodating 12 guests surround a central tent for socializing and dining where barbecues and campfires are carefully choreographed. Underneath the canvas, it’s all “Out of Africa” and in with an understated, ultra-stylish safari-chic, boasting flushing toilets, hot showers, and sprawling sumptuous beds with discreetly hidden hot water bottles. There’s even WiFi. It even works.

Usawa, meaning ‘balance’ in Swahili, referencing the ecological balance of the Serengeti, is a solar-powered mobile camp, designed to leave no trace on the landscape. Serving up a refined experience yet retaining the ability to change locations quickly, as big game hunters did a century before, facilitates agile access to Tanzania’s principal attraction – the Great Migration.

The largest overland migration of animals on earth, two million of them, predominantly wildebeest, follows the rains in a never-ending 1,200-mile odyssey, whilst predators wait to pick off prey with relative ease.

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We’d arrived at an airstrip from Arusha, the bustling town on the edge of the Serengeti, a mustering point for humans as they ready themselves for the animals. A night cossetted within the polished-wood charm of Arusha’s Legendary Lodge, a coffee plantation with open fires and sublime tropical gardens, delivers the requisite respite from the international flight.

We’re soon alongside the Mara River, site of “the crossings”, where wildebeest gather in huge numbers, gauging the brief but deadly trajectory from one bank to the other, as vultures congregate, and crocodiles secrete themselves into the mud with murder in mind.

A large group of wildebeest on the opposite bank meander back and forth in nervous procrastination waiting for a courageous hero to leap into the perilous waters, after which, the others all follow. Occasionally one leads down to the water’s edge, but the prospect of becoming dish of the day at Croc’s Café reverberates through the collective consciousness like a crack of lightning and they scramble frantically back.

We eventually leave them to it, along with the 4WDs corralled into an equally excitable grouping on our side of the river and head off deeper and deeper into an altogether more sedate Serengeti. One where a timeless tableau of sun-strafed, dream-like scenery stretches to infinity and beyond.

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Chris’s laser-like gaze leads us to a pride of lions sound asleep in a hollow, piled atop each other like exhausted outlaws that finally outrun the posse. A cheetah, of which there are only around 250 left in the Serengeti, lounging under a tree with her two cubs, raises up her pretty little head, ears twitching like a domestic cat in front of the fireplace, before strutting right in front of us with the haughty indifference of a model ambling down a Milan catwalk. The cubs scamper excitedly on behind. Mamma scours the horizon for supper.

A herd of elephants meanders across a never-ending valley, totally indifferent to our presence. With nothing but the sound of grass relentlessly tugged from the ground, we’re suddenly ensconced somewhere between Shangri-La and Jurassic Park.

Giraffes, equally dedicated to the business of hoovering up, with their huge tongues, the bounty atop the acacia trees that proliferate the landscape, also share their world with nobody but us. Hunting is still permitted here, though not for Tanzania’s national animal. The giraffe’s towering, other-worldly beauty is quite safe, at least from the legal hunters.

From a hippo (they can be active at night) caught in our headlights, prancing around on dainty feet like a gigantic, illuminated Miss Piggy, to the hyenas appearing the second our vehicle became stuck in the mud, these daily game drives deliver up the keys to Africa’s amazing animal kingdom.

[See also: First Look at Wilderness’ New Botswana Camp]

Earlier, Chris had been explaining the differing killing strategies of lions and hyenas. While the king of the jungle grabs its prey around the throat and suffocates it mercifully quickly, hyenas subject their targets to a more scatological and savage ordeal.

He recalled them ripping an escaping wildebeest’s stomach wide open, looking down in terror at its own depleting list of body parts as the chasing hyenas tore chunks off it. They watch us from the nearby woods, heads bobbing about in the darkness like a surreal puppet show. Vicious they might be, but they’re not brave, and we’re soon out of the mud and away.

Hidden fingers are delicately drumming across my forehead as the tendrils of sunlight creeping through the tent flaps coax me toward consciousness. I’ve become accustomed to opening those flaps and being transfixed by a vast undulating spectacle of extraordinary beauty.

But the drumming’s still there as the opened flaps unveil hundreds of wildebeest surging past in front of me as if suddenly tuned into a widescreen wildlife channel. East Africa’s most prodigious species isn’t its most beautiful. With long ugly heads, like masks from a satanic ritual, and huge shoulders tapering down to tiny hindquarters, it’s as if wildebeest were grafted together using surplus species to avoid wastage. Wake-up calls don’t come much weirder…. nor more wonderful.

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With heavily armed hikes and impromptu wildebeest stampedes, Usawa immerses guests into the beautiful beating heart of the Serengeti, including at night, where animals can be heard snorting around. One guest became convinced lions were around his tent, probably after du Plessis, around the campfire, had identified a lion in the distance. But a lion can be heard five miles away, and this was undoubtedly wildebeest or zebra whose diet is grass, not tourists. Although, I have to confess, I never did venture too far away from the hot water bottle.

East African safaris invariably conclude with downtime on the coast, and in two hours from the same landing strip, we’re on the semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar , enveloped into the lush serenity of the delightful French family-owned, White Sand Villas, the only Relais & Chateaux property in Tanzania. Together with Legendary Lodge, both properties provided a perfectly bookended beginning and end to the wild, wonderful, if not occasionally exhausting exuberance of the Serengeti.

On our final afternoon, we’re driven off-road, eventually emerging onto yet another far-reaching vantage point of improbable perfection. Along a nearby ridge, a line of umbrella thorn trees (supposedly the wood used for the ark of the covenant) are silhouetted against the setting sun like Javanese shadow puppets, as a tumultuous torment of rain clouds dances menacingly in the distance.

Tables are waiting, behind which are the familiar faces of our effusively friendly staff from the camp, proffering sundowners. As we succumb to the mesmerizing magnificence of it all, du Plessis explains how the word the Masai use for what’s laid out in front of us, Siringet , translates as; “the place where the land runs on forever”. It needs no explanation. Nor does his apparent decision to live in it forever.

Wilderness Usawa Serengeti from $10,131 per person sharing inclusive of one night at Legendary Lodge in Arusha, three nights with Wilderness Usawa Serengeti and two nights at Zanzibar White Sand

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Andrew Harris

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WILDERNESS USAWA SERENGETI

The Wilderness Usawa Serengeti Mobile camps embody remarkable flexibility; they are designed to fully disassemble and roam across the Serengeti plains in pursuit of one of nature's grandest spectacles – the Great Migration. As the herds of roughly two million animals traverse the Serengeti National Park, Wilderness Usawa guarantees guests a sighting of the Migration without compromising on luxury.

Transitioning seamlessly, the design narrative of a true mobile camp is celebrated and reimagined through a contemporary interpretation of the safari aesthetic. Vibrant accents disrupt the traditional safari beige, paying homage to the iconic Maasai shuka. Each intimate camp comprises six en-suite tents thoughtfully designed to maximize the experience at nine remote sites. Guests not only find themselves in the right place at the right time but can also marvel at the unfolding drama in style. The tents feature 360-degree open views with mesh walls, offering guests the sensation of sleeping on the open plains while providing passive cooling.

In true Luxury Frontiers fashion, the camp design is contextually driven and immersive. The agile tent design also ensures that the camps tread lightly on the ground of the nine sites, preserving their natural beauty.

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Wilderness Safaris rebrands ahead of 40th anniversary

New website, tagline and conservation goal, unchanged ethos and focus.

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From humble beginnings in Botswana, the company started with a few rustic tents, a single Land Rover, two dedicated safari guides, and a dream of showcasing Africa’s iconic wild places. Wilderness has since grown into a world-leading conservation and hospitality company, with over 3,000 passionate employees, and over 60 camps in eight countries – Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Zambia, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya.

The rebrand to simply Wilderness also sees the launch of a new website; taking its core conservation ethos and passion for hospitality to even greater heights, and ensuring that the company is well-positioned for future global growth.

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“We’ve changed, evolved, and grown hugely over the years, but our biggest change is finally here,” said Keith Vincent, CEO of Wilderness .”We have an ambitious goal – to double the amount of land we help conserve by 2030. In order to increase the world’s wilderness, together, and to continue protecting Earth’s most iconic wild destinations, we needed to reposition our brand in order to take our pioneering hospitality and conservation model beyond Africa’s borders,” Vincent said.

By bringing guests to discover the beating pulse of Earth’s ultimate, untamed places, Wilderness is determined to have an even bigger impact on protecting the world’s most iconic wilderness, wildlife, and local communities. To immerse guests in real nature and culture; to discover the world’s most exciting places for themselves.

“We are the same company, with the same ethos; just with a more modern and edgy look and feel, an exciting new logo and enhanced brand messaging. Conservation remains our core purpose – that will never change. Everything we do – from creating new conservation initiatives to opening new camps and pioneering hospitality across the globe – is in support of this purpose,” Vincent added.

The simplified brand name to Wilderness “truly encompasses who we are and what we really do: increasing the world’s wilderness,” said Simon Strahle, Chief Marketing Officer .

“Although we’ll continue to offer leading safari experiences, it’s time for our name to reflect our iconic destinations and the diversity of places we operate in, both now and into the future. We do so much more than just safaris – from primate trekking to stargazing, nature walks, boating and learning about new cultures,” Strahle said.

Wilderness’ new logo is an expression of both halves of the business: conservation and hospitality. It symbolises the places Wilderness protects – unfenced, untamed, and unpredictable, as well as the experiences it creates within them – around discovery, adventure and exploration. It is an abstracted and raw symbol of the wild, which takes its inspiration from the long grasses representing the diversity of habitats and all the areas in which Wilderness operates.

A new tagline also accompanies the changes, to ‘Discover Earth’s Ultimate, Untamed Places’.

Strahle said the new website, now found at  www.wildernessdestinations.com , provides a “better reflection of our wild places and extraordinary journeys.

“We hope it entices our guests and partners to discover the beating pulse of each different destination within our Collection; that it helps people envision themselves in front of a crackling campfire, listening to the stirrings of the night – bringing them closer to nature and the wilderness,” she explained.

Vincent added, “It is our joint responsibility to increase the world’s wilderness together and to ensure a better future for our planet and for our future generations.

“The more we grow, the more impact we can have on the habitats we conserve, the species we protect, and the communities we inspire, empower and uplift. Our future is bright – we look forward to embarking on the next Wilderness chapter, and working together to expand our pioneering business model across the globe”, Keith concluded.

For more information on the rebrand, click here .

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This New Luxury Safari Camp Moves To 9 Locations Across Serengeti National Park

Here's what makes the new mobile luxury safari camp, that just opened up in serengeti national park, tanzania, so special..

By: Jackie Caradonio Published: Oct 02, 2023 05:00 PM UTC

It was what the guides in Serengeti National Park call a “small crossing” — slight in both the number of animals involved (no more than 100) and the number of humans who witnessed it (just a handful). But it was hardly minor to me. 

The zebras were casual — too casual, I suspected — as they trotted across the Mara River . Murky brown water swallowed up their legs and haunches, yet they remained unhurried. All was peaceful.

Then the crocodiles came. At first one, then two — then six — and within seconds, they had taken hold of an adolescent. The water splashed and bubbled, the young equine scuttled, and the crocodiles worked in unsettling concert. Suddenly, the zebra broke away, bucking its hind legs in one last Hail Mary attempt at escape. But it was too late. At the first sight of red, I put my binoculars down and trained my focus on the distant savannah.

Noticing the tears welling up in my eyes, Chrisple Sikawa, my guide from Usawa mobile camp, offered the salve of logic. “This is the circle of life,” he said. “You wouldn’t want the crocodiles to go hungry, would you?”

Heartbroken as I was, I knew he was right. I also knew that such dramatic sightings are precisely the reason one comes to Tanzania’s most famous safari destination: to see the wilderness at its most brazen and brutish, as real as it has ever been or ever will be.

This mobile luxury safari camp travels across the Serengeti National Park

That’s the promise of the great migration, the mass journey of roughly 2 million wildebeests and zebras, and the headlining act of almost any Serengeti safari. The event is constant and year-round, spanning 500 miles (804.67 km) from the southern Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara, just north of the Tanzania border, making it a moving target for the nearly 500,000 tourists who come to the national park every year.

That transient nature is what enticed Keith Vincent, co-founder and CEO of the hospitality company Wilderness , to create Wilderness Usawa Serengeti , a roving camp that opened on its first of nine eventual sites across the Serengeti on July 26. “In the old days of guiding, you had a vehicle and a tent, and you moved wherever the wilderness went and set up camp along the way,” Vincent says. “With Usawa, I wanted to give that freedom back to our guests.”

Wilderness Usawa Serengeti

• A luxury mobile camp, Usawa travels across the Serengeti National Park, popping up seasonally in nine locations across the national park, all set along the path of the great migration.

• The luxury safari camp’s six en-suite tents are designed to have minimal impact on the environment, with off-grid power and water systems, and an innovative design that requires only manpower to build and disassemble.

• The main attractions of any stay at Usawa are the daily game drives and safari walks, during which guests can glimpse the great migration, Big Five animals, and other wildlife.

• Usawa’s custom-designed tents are decorated with art, furniture, and crafts made exclusively by Tanzanian artisans.

• The camp’s all-inclusive rates include three meals a day, all game drives and safari walks, and on-the-ground support from the moment your journey starts.

To do so, Vincent first had to strip down the luxury safari camp experience regularly found at other Wilderness camps. There are no plunge pools or spa treatments at Usawa, but rather a wide-open expanse on the crest of a remote hill, where six guest tents and a larger main tent are wrapped 360 degrees in mesh and canvas, giving a sense of near-total exposure to the elements. The entire operation is off-grid, with lighting supplied by rechargeable lanterns and solar-powered lamps (romantic or vexing, depending on your task) and showers fed by buckets of manually heated water that funnel into taps by simple gravity (and, boy, do they feel amazing).

Still, nothing comes close to roughing it. King-size beds are dressed in crisp white linens, bathrooms are stocked with Inaya Zanzibar’s all-natural products, and décor is a curated assemblage of local design and ingenuity. The greatest luxury of all, however, is Usawa’s connection to nature: the cool breezes that drift through your tent, the sound of raindrops and elephants trumpeting as you drift to sleep, the first sliver of early morning sun as it stretches across the horizon to gently wake you.

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“But the real fun of it,” Vincent insists, “is the chase.” Thus, Usawa moves with the great migration — from the south’s calving season, during which hundreds of wildebeests are born every day, to the mass crossings that take place on the Mara River — with Wilderness operating up to three identical camps at any one time, while a fourth transitions to the next site. Guests can easily follow the action, hopscotching from camp to camp. Once the herd moves on, Wilderness packs up and makes for the next location, leaving no trace behind.

Over five days at one of the camp’s northern locations, I found that however great the migration itself is, it was only a small part of any experience in the Serengeti, which is home to one of the most wildlife-rich expanses in Africa. Spanning more than 5,500 square miles (14,244.93 square kilometres), it is the quintessential picture of sub-Saharan wilderness, home to an abundance of big cats, as well as the rest of the Big Five animals (including a growing population of rhinos), plus giraffes, elephants, hyenas, and more than 500 bird species.

But, in the end, it was the great migration that once again beckoned. Though the heartache of our earlier sighting was still fresh in my mind, I agreed to let Sikawa show me what he called “the magic of a big crossing.” And so, we set out for the Mara, tracing its banks until a massive swirl of dust caught our attention — a scuffle of hooves pounding the dirt, Sikawa explained.

We arrived at its source minutes later, just as the first wildebeests were crossing, grunting and bucking all the while, literally running for their lives. One by one, as they made their safe passage across the river, they surrounded our vehicle, their mews nothing short of celebratory to my ears. The crossing carried on for close to an hour, and when the dust finally settled, not a single casualty had occurred. Then, a calf, clearly exhausted, dropped onto its knees to nurse from its mother’s teat. I felt the tears welling up once again, and this time they poured out like rain. It had been quite the journey — for all of us.

Designed by Luxury Frontiers (whose other hospitality projects include Camp Sarika by Amangiri in Utah and Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita, Mexico ), Usawa’s six en-suite tents are made from overlapping swatches of canvas and mesh to eliminate the barrier between the indoors and the great outdoors.

Still, every creature’s comfort has been accounted for. King-size beds are dressed in luxury linens; minibars are stocked with fresh coffee, tea, and snacks; and toiletries are from the all-natural skincare brand Inaya Zanzibar. Interiors throughout the camp showcase Tanzania’s artisans and designers: handwoven baskets, blankets, and pillows are sourced from a local collective that empowers women to achieve financial independence. Glassware, beaded chandeliers, and leather details come from Sanaa, a non-profit that teaches lucrative crafts to those with disabilities. And tables and chairs made from upcycled plastic are the ingenious creation of Arusha-based DuniaDesigns.

Outside, my husband and I lounged on our hammock (often with a bottle of South African rosé) or watched the surrounding hills through binoculars from a pair of canvas chairs. We regularly witnessed game drive–worthy sightings right outside our tent, from a family of elephants crossing the hills to the hundreds of zebras and wildebeest that wandered right through camp.

Food and drink

Usawa is all-inclusive, including spirits and a wide selection of wines from the African continent. The culinary team takes full advantage of Tanzania’s robust farming culture, serving both international and traditional Swahili dishes. Okra takes on heavenly forms in spicy curry, South African syrah sings with fragrant Zanzibari-spiced pilau rice, and creamy mtori soup, made with fresh plantains, is equal parts sweet and savoury — and utterly irresistible.

All mealtimes and menus are customized for guests as they plan each day with their guide. Pre-safari breakfasts are lavish spreads of porridge, fruit, pastries, and made-to-order eggs. Lunch is served overlooking the savannah at the edge of the luxury safari camp or as a picnic on game drives. Dinners are multi-course affairs served under the starry night sky or in the main tent.

Experiences and amenities

Activities are centred on the magnificent theatre that is the great wilderness of the Serengeti. As Usawa travels among nine locations throughout the national park, guests are afforded the chance to witness the great migration up close in its many phases. From January to March, the southern Serengeti bears witness to the birth of thousands of wildebeests (an estimated 800 calves are born each day). Come July, the herds move north and river crossings are the main event.

Game drives and bush walks are offered daily. One morning we set out straight from the luxury safari camp on foot, skirting a family of elephants as they broke down an entire acacia tree for an afternoon feast, then catching sight of a cheetah sprinting across the hillside 100 yards away. On a drive the next day, we encountered a mother cheetah and her cubs, the white of their bellies fat and round, the scruff of their chins blood-stained—and vultures circling overhead in pursuit of the remains of their kill. We waited patiently outside a cluster of bushes for a leopard to at last poke out its spotted head; watched a thick-maned lion perch proudly atop a boulder, keeping a watchful eye over a valley filled with prey; and counted the many crocodiles ominously patrolling the banks of the river.

Family-friendly offerings

Usawa welcomes children from six years old. Buy-outs are available for families with members of all ages. All safari activities can be customised to accommodate different ages and abilities.

Accessibility and sustainability

Wilderness’s greatest ambition in creating Usawa was to create a luxury safari camp that would minimally impact the Earth. Power is provided by solar panels and portable batteries that are recharged at a main power bank. Tents are constructed only by employees, ensuring the least possible disturbance to the native wildlife and enabling the camp to be easily and quickly moved from location to location. “We’ll leave no trace,” Vincent says. “One storm and the grassland will look like we’ve never been there.”

To preserve the land, Usawa has forgone constructing sewage systems, employing a series of innovations to stay more eco-friendly. Toilets operate on portable septic systems, with waste routinely removed from the park or used to fertilize the grounds when possible. Filtered cold and hot water are supplied to guests throughout the day. Showers are especially clever in their operation, supplied by heated water that is manually fed into overhead buckets and then funnelled into taps. Simply pull the chain for a steamy cascade.

Usawa is not ADA-compliant, which is typical for luxury safari camps like this one.

To arrive at Serengeti National Park, travellers can fly via Hamad International Airpor t in Doha to Kilimanjaro International Airport, then connect from Arusha Airport to one of Serengeti National Park’s airstrips. Wilderness plans all itineraries end-to-end with VIP travel perks, including Al Maha service when flying with Qatar Airways. In Arusha, we stayed at Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge, a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2020 winner set on a coffee farm.

Usawa’s nine locations stretch from the southern Serengeti National Park to Tanzania’s northern border with Kenya. Up to three camps will operate simultaneously to allow guests to follow the great migration as closely as possible. Wilderness arranges guest stays based on predictions of the great migration path.

How to get the most value out of your stay

Safaris are admittedly costly, but Wilderness’s all-inclusive pricing includes everything: accommodations, unlimited meals and beverages, all activities, and transfers within Serengeti National Park. Wilderness also partners with airlines such as Qatar Airways to offer discounted flights for safari goers. Nightly rates at Usawa start at USD 950 per person, with a minimum two-night stay.

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(Hero and feature image credit: Jackie Caradonio/Travel + Leisure)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

All currency conversions were done at the time of writing

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Okavango wilderness safaris –.

• 12 January 2023

PIONEERING CONSERVATION AND HOSPITALITY IN BOTSWANA SINCE 1983

Wilderness is a world-leading conservation and hospitality company proudly founded in Botswana in 1983. Known as Okavango Wilderness Safaris (OWS) in Botswana, the company is dedicated to the conservation of the breathtaking biodiversity of the Okavango Delta, Linyanti Wildlife Reserve and Central Kalahari Game Reserve, while empowering local communities at the same time. Beyond the countless life-changing experiences it offers guests, OWS continues to have a significant and meaningful positive impact on the local and national economy.

“Botswana is a must-see spectacle and OWS has been fortunate to have a presence in the best and most exclusive wilderness areas. The location of our camps in the country’s prolific wildlife places offers an experience that we’re constantly looking to improve, in our quest to provide our guests with life-changing journeys. This enables us to create value for our stakeholders and surrounding communities, as well as to continue investing in biodiversity conservation projects that contribute to the protection of these important wild areas”, noted OWS Board Chairman, Kabelo Binns.

Facts about the broader Wilderness Group (Wilderness Holdings):

·       Today, this proudly Botswana born business operates in eight African states and owns and operates over 60 camps and lodges (22 in Botswana; 38 in the rest of Africa), employing 3000 staff.

Facts about Okavango Wilderness Safaris (OWS):

·       OWS is the Botswana operating business of Wilderness Holdings and is domiciled and headquartered in Botswana

·       Established in 1983, OWS celebrates 40 years of luxury ecotourism in Botswana

·       Employs around 1,000 people in Botswana alone.

·       Markets and operates a combined property portfolio of 22 camps in Botswana

·       OWS has always recognised and promoted the great importance of the Tourism sector for the economic benefits that come from sustainable non consumptive use of the great flora and fauna over vast areas, including the Okavango, Chobe, Linyanti and Central Kalahari

·       Aligned to supporting Government’s Reset Agenda, this is believed to be one of the most effective ways to achieve the National Vision 2036

·       Continued sustainable impact in 3 primary areas: Conservation, Education and Citizen Empowerment:

o   Conservation:

*  Holds leases over 272 000 hectares across Botswana.

*  OWS incurred lease rentals and resource royalties expenses of P31.9 million in FY2020 (pre-COVID year), P14.3 million in FY2021 (COVID year) and P21.1 million in FY2022 (another COVID year).

*  Beyond this, OWS is involved in research and conservation, working to ensure the world better understands how to conserve these wilderness areas.  

o   Education

*  OWS is renowned locally for being “trainers” for the sector, through its own BQA accredited programmes and continuous on the job training and development.

*  96% of staff are citizens, including part of the EXCO, as increasingly more Batswana take up leadership roles in Botswana and further afield.

*  OWS’ strategy will remain one that seeks to ensure international flavour and experience constantly mix with the beautiful Tswana culture and our approach to hospitality, also opening up opportunities in other markets for Batswana to get international experience – Zambia, Namibia and Rwanda, so far.

*  To further augment its ability to identify and develop talent, OWS has recently launched a programme called “Dinaledi” to identify future leaders. Customised programmes will be developed for this talent to fast track their path up the leadership ladder. In just the last 12 months, OWS has awarded six citizen employee scholarships from MBAs to Specialist Programmes in Strategy and Project Management. Graduates of this programme are the future leaders of OWS, and likely future contributors to the hospitality and conservation narrative of Botswana.  

*  Children in the Wilderness (CITW) is a non-profit programme that celebrated 20 years of operation in 2022. Pre-Covid, CITW Botswana had over 2,000 children from communities across the region participating in its conservation and leadership programmes, which aim to educate and encourage the next generation of conservation warriors. It is intended that CITW will return to pre-Covid levels by the end of 2023.

o   Empowerment:

*  83% of all OWS’ purchases of goods and services are from local suppliers. OWS works to support the entire value chain of the industry where possible, including at all of its 22 camps, as well as its offices in Maun and Gaborone.

*  In a non-COVID year, that figure was around P191 million (being 80% of total purchases). During the pandemic years, the same number was P86milion (92% of total purchases) and P96m (89% of total purchases) for FY2021 and FY2022 respectively. The number is much higher when there are ongoing CapEx projects. 

*  OWS is proud of its historical contribution and unwavering in its commitment to supporting local businesses, organisations and communities.

*  Driving more sustainable impact and working to play a more meaningful role in all the communities that OWS works in:

·       Over the past two years, OWS donated 7.5 tonnes of seed to communities to ensure they   were able to plough and farm their lands, helping to secure better local food sustainability.

·       Donated over 9,000 food parcels to needy families during COVID. OWS carried all the cost of distributing the 346 tonnes of food across Northern Botswana right down to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and even Gaborone on one occasion.

·       Finalising the establishment of a vegetable farm to help secure fresh vegetables for its camps, to impart skills and best practice that helps enhance the technical abilities of farmers in the area. Wilderness guests expect the very best and freshest produce, and OWS plans to deliver that to them right from here in Botswana – this is empowerment in action. OWS will hire and train community members to bring this farm to life.

·       Drilling six boreholes in and around the Okavango Community Trust areas to help reduce human-wildlife conflict and save lives.

·       Procured sustainable agricultural implements for farmers in Eretsha and Sankoyo, and on a yearly basis, OWS tractors assist farmers in these areas to plough their fields.

·       Constructing a block of classrooms, ablution facilities, connecting water in the school and fencing school premises at Eretsha Primary School.

·       Revenue and taxes: OWS’ contribution to total Government revenue through taxes as a single company is estimated to be approximately 0.5% of total Government revenue.

“Okavango Wilderness Safaris is proud to call Botswana home, and unwavering in our commitment to create shared value for this home. We have a deliberate drive to participate in other geographic areas of Botswana too. After all, conservation must happen everywhere, and Batswana need support Nationwide. You can expect to see more of us across Botswana in the future, as we work to ensure even more engagement and impact in line with our strategy and our commitment to sustainable progress”, concluded OWS MD, Kim Nixon.

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Top of the World Hike – Kibale Forest

 Hit the Top of the World Trail near Kibale Forest

The top of the world hike takes you to villages, crater lakes, tea plants, and incredible views..

Take the unforgettable adventure along the Top of the World Trail near Kibale Forest. This experience will take you through charming villages, enchanting crater lakes, lush tea plantations, and breathtaking vistas.

The Top of the World Hike is tailor-made for those who relish captivating panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and the sprawling countryside. Photographers will find themselves immersed in Uganda’s scenic wonders, capturing the beauty of the landscape. Moreover, along the trail, you can interact with the local villagers, providing a unique blend of scenery and cultural immersion.

Unsurprisingly, the Top of the World Hike is a favored activity among visitors to Kibale Forest and Fort Portal. To make the most of this experience, it is advisable to begin the hike early in the morning while the air is still cool and the sun starts to rise. The trail is suitable for individuals with an average fitness level, making it accessible to most.

During the hike, you have two options to choose from. The first option is to complete the entire walk, ascending and descending along the trail. The second option involves climbing the course while your driver-guide awaits you at the top. At the summit, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with panoramic views, savoring the rewards of your hiking efforts.

Whichever option you choose, the Top of the World Hike promises to be a gratifying and enjoyable experience, offering a glimpse of Uganda’s natural splendor and the warmth of its local communities.

To assist you on the hike, you can acquire a walking stick made from a thin wooden pole, which will provide stability on slippery trails, especially after night rainfall.

There are two different routes to reach the top of the world viewpoint. The easier option allows vehicle access to the “Top of the World Cottages.” However, most adventurers opt for the more challenging trail. Throughout your hike, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will share historical and cultural insights, enlightening you on the formation of the crater lakes, local legends, and the region’s rich culture, making your three-hour journey even more enjoyable.

As you traverse the trail, you will often be greeted with friendly “How are you?” greetings from the local children you encounter. The path will lead you through picturesque hamlets adorned with lush gardens, banana groves, and coffee and tea plantations. You will cross paths with hardworking locals gracefully carrying loads on their heads as they effortlessly pass by while you tackle the same trail with a bit of huffing and puffing.

On your expedition, you will come across the second crater lake, known for its solitary hippo that occasionally appears. At times, the tranquility of the crater lake will captivate you as you observe anglers peacefully navigating its waters in boats made of reeds.

The Top of the World Hike is not overly rugged, making it a popular choice for many. However, its true highlight lies at the summit. Weather permitting, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the crater lakes below, Fort Portal town, the Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale Forest, and more. Take in the panoramic splendor while savoring a delicious lunch at a restaurant at the top. Afterward, you can descend back to the starting point, where your driver-guide will be waiting to transport you to your lodge or your next destination.

For those seeking an extended experience, you can spend the night in one of the cozy cottages at the “Top of the World,” allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

Contact us if you want to add this hike to your Kibale Forest Safari.

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Discovering Fort Portal

Home » African Safari Destinations » Uganda Safaris, Tours & Holidays » Discovering Fort Portal

Fort Portal is one of Uganda’s busiest tourism hubs located in western Uganda, fort portal is the main city of Kabarole district and the administrative center for the Toro Kingdom and the city was named after Sir Gerald Portal, a British Special Commissioner to Uganda during the colonial times and the city is the only city named in English, whose statue graces the main road of the town. Situated between the Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Semuliki national park it is a significant market town.

Things to do while Discovering fort portal

Most however will want to take in Fort Portal’s tourist attractions which range from caves and waterfalls to Royal Places (with Fort Portal being the home of the traditional Toro Kingdom) and tombs to its tea plantations and guided walks that take in crater lakes and with their bubbling sources.

There is good accommodation in and about Fort Portal from which you can use as a base for trips and adventures to Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, and the Kibale forest. Food is plentiful both for those who prefer traditional African food and those who would rather have international food with the Dutchess hotel and restaurant close to the center of town offering pizzas, burgers, etc.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale forest

Kibale forest is located just 1 hour from Fortal city and its one of the top places to see chimpanzees in the whole world and day trips can be arranged from the main city of fort portal during your stay

Visit the Tooro kingdom palace

The Toro Kingdom is a home for the world’s youngest king “Oyo”. While here, Students will learn about the history of the Tooro kingdom’s traditional dress code, the language spoken, the past kings, and where they are buried among others, there are also numerous artifacts that represent their culture.

Visit the Amabere Caves                                                                                              

The Amabere Caves also known as the Nyakasura Caves given their location at Nyakasura Falls, are located some five miles from Fort Portal on the Bundibugyo Road. Not really caves, more a large overhang, the name Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru translates as “Breasts of Nyinamwiru” with Nyinamwiru being the daughter of a local usurper king who reportedly had her breasts cut off to make her less attractive to men.

Visit Tooro Botanical Gardens

Founded in 2001, the Tooro Botanical Gardens were established in Fort Portal to help conserve trees and other plant life that was at risk of facing extinction in Western Uganda. Today the gardens are flourishing and cover a 100-acre site and not only concentrate on conservation but also scientific research and education.

The Tooro Botanical Gardens also encourage sustainable agriculture and partner with SATNET, the Sustainable Agriculture Trainers Network.

Visitors to the gardens can enjoy a guided tour by well-informed staff as well as strolling around the gardens with their abundance of flowers, medicinal plants.

Kyaninga Crater Lake hike from fort portal

The fort portal to Kyaninga hike is an 8.6km hike that runs from the entrance of the Mountains of the Moon Hotel to the scenic Kyaninga Crater Lake, with a side tour to some nearby smaller dry craters. Allow for 2 hours and 45 minutes without long interruptions or breaks. People that are unsure on their feet might benefit from a walking stick.

Lake Nkuruba guided walks

About 30 minutes’ drive from the fort portal is the beautiful forest and Lake Nkuruba famous for primates and you can spend your time exploring the beautiful scenery around Lake Nkuruba with our friendly Tourist Guides. The ‘Top of the World’ viewpoint, not far from Nkuruba, really is a must-see!

Day trips to Semuliki National Park                                                                      

Semuliki National Park is slightly different from other national parks in Uganda as it doesn’t boast much animal wildlife, though there are some; however, its main attraction is its birds and hot springs. The park is next to the Semuliki and Lamia rivers and is located on Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo with Lake Albert to the park’s north and the stunning Rwenzori Mountains to its south-east.

Day trips to Rwenzori Mountains National Park                                                             

Rwenzori Mountains National Park was designated in 1991 achieving World Heritage site status in 1994 to protect the highest parts of the mountain range and covers most of the center and eastern half of the mountains ~ an area of some 384 sq miles. It is home to over 70 mammal species and 217 bird species and perfect forest walks can be arranged from the fort portal which is just two hours drive.

Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park                                                                   

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular destination in Uganda for those looking for a safari not least because of its diversity stretching from the Rwenzori Mountains that straddle the border with the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo to the shores of Lake Edward taking in forest, savannah, and wetlands along the way wildlife like Leopards, hyena’s, antelopes and so much can be seen and the drive from fort portal is just 3 hours.

Day trips to Lake Albert the Ntoroko section

Lake Albert was so named in 1864 by European explorers Samuel Baker and Sass Flora when they “discovered it” and named it in honor of Queen Victoria’s consort Prince Albert who had died three years previously.

It was briefly renamed as Lake Mobutu Sese Seko by President Mobutu Sese Seko Kuku Ngbendu Wa Za Banga of the Congo (President 24 November 1965 – 16 May 1997) before reverting to its widely known name and is Africa’s seventh-largest lake measuring some 100 miles long and 19 miles wide with a maximum depth of 168 feet.

Lake Albert is located between the Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo in Western Uganda and is the most northern of the lakes in the Albertine Rift which straddles parts of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),

Visit Bigodi sanctuary wetland

Activities and attractions in fort portal – Bigodi is a community-based organization that started with a view of uplifting the status and lifestyle of the lower class families of Bigodi village and other communities around. In 2016 is when it started and with four people who trained with Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development, found a loop and unauthenticated community walk and derived means, making it more authentic giving scholastic materials, improving households, and providing employment to the community guides and demonstrators.

Experience Bigodi community walks

Bigodi Community Walk (BICOWA) is located six (6) kilometers from Kibale Forest National Park which is thirty (30) kilometers from Fort Portal town.

In visiting the Bigodi community you are supporting the community directly and through this, it teaches them not to encroach on the protected area encouraging them to conserve for the nearest home of the Chimpanzees the Kibale Forest National Park.

Best time to visit Fort Portal city

Fort portal can be visited any time of the year, it is one of the places in Uganda with the best climate all year around.

How to get to Fort Portal city

By Road, the fort portal is located about 298 Km road from Kampala the main capital city of Uganda to Fort Portal by road via Mityana-Mubende-kyegeggwa-kyenjojo which is about a 5-6 hour drive

By air, travelers can fly into Kasese which is located 2 hours from fort portal city-There are 1:30 minutes scheduled and charted domestic flights from Entebbe to Kasese operated by Aerolink which is about 2 hours from Kasese to Fort. portal.                                                                                                                       

Where to stay in Fort Portal

There quite a range of accommodation facilities in fort portal ranging from Luxury, Mid-range and budget, and some of the places to look out for including Kyaninga Lodge, Mountains of the moon hotel, Aramaga rift valley Lodge, Rwenzori view, and Dutchess hotel.

Activities to do in park

How to get there, popular tours and safaris, best time to visit the park, where to stay in the park, recommended african safaris.

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