Page 24 - Discover Botswana 25th Edition - 2025

24 www.discoverbotswanathebook.biz
OKAVANGO
Previous pages: A Martial Eagle has successfully hunted
a yellow mongoose along the dry river bed of the Savute
channel in Chobe National Park. Raptor populations play
a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and the
overall health of ecosystems.
Below: A pride of lions eagerly watch an adult female
begin to hunt along the Selinda Spillway. Yet another
much sought after subject for wildlife photographers
visiting the region.
Facing page: Lions are considered a vulnerable species
in Africa with just 20 000 to 23 000 individuals left in
the last remaining wilderness areas. Habitat loss and
human wildlife conflict have seen their numbers reduce
significantly over the last century.
significant shift occurred as land management policies encouraged the
hosting of photographic safaris in remote lodges and camps. A more
mainstream approach to commercial tourism shifted the dynamics
further, and from what were at first simple camps built out of thatch and
reed, beautifully appointed luxury lodges with fine cuisine started to cater
to luxury travelers.
Today, the history of safari in Botswana illustrates a remarkable
transformation to a conservation focused tourist industry, placing the
country as a leader in sustainable wildlife tourism in Africa. Indeed, the
country boasts some of the best accolades in the global travel arena with
some of the finest award-winning lodges and camps that are recognised
for their architectural design, innovative power and waste management
systems, and their cuisine.
For the Okavango Delta, a high-cost, low-volume tourism policy
has resulted in the careful protection of Southern Africa’s largest intact
eco system. The delta, now enjoyed by thousands of visitors annually is
certainly one of Africa’s most sought-after wildlife destinations. And it
is in the spirit of safari, the pioneering and adventurous souls who came
before, as well as the likes of Chief Moremi lll and the people of Botswana,
that today we may enjoy unprecedented wildlife viewing opportunities
in some of the world’s finest lodgings. A safari here will certainly be life
changing. ■ DB25
STEVE STOCKHALL
Steve has resided in Botswana for over 25 years
and guides photographic safaris to remote parts
of the country through his travel company – Earth
Ark Travel. Being surrounded by the country’s
beautiful landscapes, people and wildlife, garners
a further will to continue to explore and capture
this land as a photographer. As editor of Discover
Botswana, Steve enjoys working with world class
photographers and contributors on each edition
which visually brings to life the country’s diversity
to readers across the globe.