Considered one of the safer safari destinations, introduce the family to the wonders of the wild and free in the heart of the Kalahari, Botswana this year. The six-suite Lodge at Feline Fields welcomes guests of all ages.
New for 2018, The Lodge has launched a luxury mobile camping experience in Mababe Marshes, Khwai Community Concession (minimum age of four) for the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife in twice daily game drives in unfenced surroundings. Begin this Botswanan adventure under canvas sleeping under the stars to the sounds of the wildlife. The whole family will delight in canoeing down the Okavango Delta by Mokoro with a picnic in tow, venturing to the edge of Chobe National Park known for its elephants. Being the only source of water for miles theKhwai River acts like a magnet for wildlife-making for terrific game viewing including leopard, elephant, lion, buffalo, zebra, hyena, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, giraffe and hippo.
After two nights in the wilderness, transfer by helicopter for four nights at The Lodge where a schedule-free stay and a multitude of activities await. Established by Marjan Blom and Raphael del Sarte – parents who understand travelling with children – each of the spacious pool suites offers accommodation for two adults and two children up to 15 years old, with a comfortable day-bed which extends to a full double. The flexible schedule means the day is built around the family at Feline Fields, from wake-up and meal times, to the activities they enjoy that day.
Head out on game drives in open safari vehicles to discover desert-adapted wildlife, or take a walking or horse-back safarito experience this incredible landscape from a different perspective. Special ‘fat’ bicycles, adapted for use on sand, are parked outside each suite to explore the Kalahari accompanied by an experienced guide. Children are sure to be captivated by the sense of open-space.
For an immersive and educative cultural experience, families can also visit the Kaure Bush Camp, home to some of the last remaining Bushmen. Witness their ancient Trance Dance to communicate with the spirits, before embarking on a bushwalk to understand how the San people have survived thousands of years in the desert. Spend another evening witnessing the magical moment of hyena’s emerging from their dens at sunset, learning about one of the rarest mammals in Africa and their role in the eco-system.
At the main lodge, enjoy game of tennis on the court crafted from old termite mounds, before the whole family cools off in the 25m lap pool – perfect for splashing around on a hot day. A children’s dining menu offers fresh cuisine daily to suit individual preferences, while a baby-sitting service allows the opportunity for parents to unwind with massage, sundowner drink or workout in the bush gym.
Larger families travelling together can take the six suites of The Lodge on an exclusive basis, for an unforgettable experience they will remember for a lifetime.
A stay at The Lodge at Feline Fields starts from $890 (approx. £638) per person, per night. This includes return road transfers, all meals and drinks (excluding champagne and French wines), all game drives, a visit to Kaure Bushmen Camp, laundry service, VAT and a €30 donation to the Feline Fields Trust. Children under 15 years old can stay in addition from $270 (approx. £194) per child, per night.
A six night safari starts from $6,750 (approximately £4,842) per person. This includes: two nights mobile camping in Khwai, four nights at The Lodge at Feline Fields, a transfer one-way by helicopter between Khwai and The Lodge, return road transfers, all activities including safari in Khwai and a bushmen experience at Kaure Bush Camp, all meals and drinks (excluding champagne and French wines), laundry service, VAT and a €30 donation to the Feline Fields Trust. Children under 15 years old can join for $3,375 per child (50% discount).
Please note there is a minimum of four guests at the mobile camp.
For further information, please visit www.felinefields.com
