This lovely walking safari is set on trails in the north of the Selinda, a private reserve in the Linyanti region. A maximum of 6 people can be accommodated at one time. The trip can be lengthened if you wish and permenant camps can be added at the beginning or end.
A special area has been set aside in the northern reaches of the Selinda Reserve for walking safaris. Following the trails and time-worn paths of elephant and antelope through riparian forest and open plains, guests have the privilege of experiencing Africa as our ancestors and the early explorers did - on foot.
Selinda Walking Trails are led by an armed Professional Guide as well as a tracker. The Trails guide carries a rifle, two-way radio and first aid kit. A back up vehicle is available in emergency. The morning walk is between 7-10km/4-6miles and lasts for between three and five hours. Typically, the morning trail ends at that evening's trail camp. A short afternoon walk of 3km/2miles is conducted from camp into the surrounding area.
Trailists need carry only their cameras and binoculars. All luggage is transferred by vehicle to the next camp. Water and snacks are supplied whilst on the trail. In the event that something interesting is discovered on foot, such as a lion kill, the Trails back-up vehicle can be used for drives to get closer to the action. It also gives trailists the chance to do night drives should they wish.
WHAT YOU MAY SEE Walking safaris are the best way to become closer to nature, to see it up close and to feel it. The Trails guide and tracker will introduce the smaller creatures, plants and spoor, as well as stalk up on some of the larger mammals. Elephant are common and frequently encountered but mostly viewed from a distance. Lion and cheetah are seen less often. Wild Dog sightings are rewarding and quite possible during the dry season. Birding is excellent with more than 310 species having been recorded on The Selinda Reserve. The species more commonly seen on foot include: buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, hippo, hyena and a wide variety of antelope.
ACCOMMODATION Both Trails camps, Mokoba and Tshwene, have three custom designed tents that are built on high decks with open verandas, allowing for a 'sleep out' option for trailists. Twin single beds, or double on request, with high quality mattresses and fine cotton linen guarantee a good night's rest after the day's exertions. When electing to sleep out, the beds are encapsulated by a suspended mosquito net and the open skies.During 'siesta hour' guests can enjoy the relative cool of the below deck hammocks to recharge before the afternoon's walk. A flush toilet and hand basin are 'en suite' at ground level. Hot and cold water is replenished on request. A secluded, open air 'shower deck' is shared by safari participants. Twin bucket showers, plenty of hot water and spectacular views are the norm.
The Trails Camps are essentially luxury 'fly camps'. The emphasis is on the outdoors and the camps reflect this. Meals, prepared at the campfire by the Trails hostess, are enjoyed on top of a levelled termite mound. The camp and its facilities are designed to have a minimal impact on the environment.