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Linyanti Wildlife Reserve: Botswana's Untamed Wilderness

Discover Botswana's hidden gem: Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, an exclusive safari destination with abundant wildlife and untouched landscapes.

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Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, a private concession in northern Botswana, offers a secluded safari experience with diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Known for its large elephant herds, predators, and birdlife, Linyanti provides an intimate and exclusive getaway for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (May to October) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
  • Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities, with over 400 recorded species in the reserve.
  • Consider a guided walking safari for an immersive experience and a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for both warm days and cool nights, especially during the dry season.
  • Be aware that access to Linyanti is often restricted, and pre-booking accommodation at a safari lodge or camp is essential.
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Getting There

  • Light Aircraft

    The most common way to reach Linyanti Wildlife Reserve is by light aircraft, landing at one of the airstrips located near the safari lodges. This is due to the remote location and challenging road conditions. Contact your chosen lodge or safari operator to arrange a flight from Maun or Kasane. Prices vary depending on the operator and distance, but expect to pay between $300 to $600 USD per person for a round trip.

  • 4x4 Vehicle

    For adventurous travelers, reaching Linyanti by 4x4 is possible, but requires careful planning and preparation. The roads are sandy and rough, so a reliable 4x4 vehicle is essential. From Maun, take the A3 towards the north and then follow the signs to Linyanti. Ensure you have enough fuel and supplies, as services are limited. Park entry fees are approximately $20 USD per person per day, plus vehicle fees. Camping fees within the Chobe National Park (which includes Linyanti) are around $70 USD per person per night.

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Discover more about Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, tucked away in northern Botswana along the Linyanti River, presents a pristine and exclusive safari destination. Spanning approximately 1,250 square kilometers, this private concession boasts diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, riverine forests, and meandering lagoons. Unlike the more frequented Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta, Linyanti remains wonderfully secluded, ensuring close-up wildlife encounters in an exceptionally wild setting. The Linyanti River draws wildlife from across northern Botswana, especially during the dry winter months. The reserve is known for its large concentrations of elephants, often seen in mega-herds, as well as buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and various antelope species. Predators such as lions, leopards, wild dogs, cheetahs, and hyenas are also frequently sighted. Birdlife thrives here, with over 400 recorded species, including carmine bee-eaters, martial eagles, and wattled cranes. Visitors can experience the Linyanti through game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, night drives, and guided walks. The private status of the reserve allows for off-road driving, providing closer encounters with wildlife. Other activities include canoeing on the lagoons and boating on the waterways. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) when wildlife congregates around water sources. Historically, the Savuti region where Linyanti stands was inhabited by the Basarwa, a nomadic hunter-gatherer tribe. Over time, the area was divided into land tenure systems, and the idea of turning it into a national park emerged in the early 20th century. The creation of Chobe National Park was delayed due to a tsetse fly outbreak, but eventually, the park was established, and Linyanti became a protected area focused on tourism and conservation. Today, Linyanti plays a crucial role in sustaining wildlife and conserving Botswana's natural heritage.

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