Florence, Thomas, Anouk and Jules

We set off on a family adventure with our 13- and 6-year-old children on a self-drive safari, without really realising just how incredible our experience of Botswana would be.

From the very first days, we felt so small and yet so at home in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. It was love at first sight and, unanimously, the most precious moment of our trip. The unspoilt wilderness, our first encounters with the animals, and a sky unlike any we’d ever seen before.

Our sense of time was completely transformed in this region. Watching the sunrise, getting lost in the car whilst hoping for chance encounters with wildlife, the time spent at camp, by the fire and under the stars. Listening to the silence. Smelling the distinctive scents of the bush. An intense sense of freedom. What wonders! All our senses were fully engaged.

We also had a good laugh at our adventures and encounters: getting stuck in the mud along the Chobe River, having our sandwiches stolen by monkeys, and a mouse stowing away in our vehicle. We met elderly elephants and baby meerkats. We watched the lions feed and the hippos rest.

We appreciated how well-planned our itinerary was and the high standard of the camps and accommodation where we stayed over the course of these three weeks.

Thank you for the excellent organisation, your advice and for listening to us. We’ll carry Botswana in our hearts.

Published on: 5 September 2026