Thamalakane River
Riding Safari
A 5 night riding safari based at the tented Royal Tree Lodge on the banks of the Thamalakane river
- 5 Nights
- February – November
- Botswana
- ££££
- Authentic
Trip Overview
A short five day riding safari suitable for all abilities which has the flexibility to be amended to a three or seven night itinerary.
A short road transfer from Maun, the safari capital of Botswana, brings guests to the Foot family’s home base of Royal Tree Lodge. A small and intimate property with only 10 luxurious tented rooms where you can relax and enjoy a swimming pool, sun deck and the shade of the acacia woodland.
Wildlife roams the reserve in abundance. From the edge of the camp one can see a surprisingly wide range of wildlife including giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, oryx and springbok. Depending on the season you can observe and hear a proliferation of birdlife.
Each day guests head out at dawn for a long morning ride before heading into the back country for a long canters through the endless acacia woodlands where there are fallen logs for jumping.
Lunch is normally served at the lodge or on some days a picnic is provided. After a siesta guests can head out onto the water for a boat trip with fishing and birdwatching. The day ends with sunset and sundowners.
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Royal Tree Lodge, Thamalakane River
The Royal Tree Lodge is a small intimate camp. There are only 10 luxurious tents set along the Thamalakane riverbank. Each spacious Meru tent has a wonderfully comfortable four poster bed, crisp cotton sheets and their own en suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water. Royal Tree Lodge is the home base of David Foot and his family, renowned walking and riding specialists. The Foot family pioneered riding safaris in the Niyka Plateau, Malawi before setting setting up in Botswana. The camp is a short trip by road from Maun international airport in the Okovango Delta.
A thatched central library, living and dining area featuring an eclectic mix of original African furniture and textiles, provides the perfect area to switch off and relax after a day in the saddle. There is a pretty swimming pool to cool off in during the heat of the day and surrounding sundecks are discreetly adjacent to the main area for reading and birdwatching.
Bush cuisine is best served under the shade of the giant jackalberry or leadwood trees. Hearty and delicious meals are provided to keep you going on the long rides and at the end of a busy days riding.
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