Fancy an Okavango Panhandle adventure?

Whether you’re an overlanding enthusiast in the middle of the exciting process of mapping out your self-drive around Botswana, taking in the variety of different environments she has on offer, or not having the luxury of that much time on hand, busy planning your once in a lifetime fly-in-fly-out safari to do the same, how about throwing this in the middle, beginning or end as an exciting and “unique adventure” option.

Before we proceed though, about that “once-in-a-lifetime” Botswana trip ... it rarely ever is. Experience has shown that most return, at least once more. It’s that good!

The Okavango River originates in the highlands of Angola and navigates its way down south-eastwards for approximately 1,600 kms, making it the fourth longest river system in southern Africa. Along the way it forms part of the border between Angola and Namibia before cutting across the Caprivi and flowing into Botswana at the small village of Mohembo.

For convenience, Miss Elly is based approximately 10 kilometres downriver from Shakawe on the Okavango River, where you will hop on board to cruise the river for a minimum of three nights. Getting there from Maun is an easy flight over the Delta to Shakawe, and from there it’s a quick transfer by road to the boat.

For those of you doing the self-drive option, as an add-on you’ll be happy to know (if you didn’t already) that an impressive suspension bridge was completed at Mohembo fairly recently, allowing for easy vehicle access to Seronga and surrounds. Previously one would have had to cross the river using a ferry.

Miss Elly is the dreamchild of John and Erica (aka “Elly”) Schwikkard, who moved to Maun, Botswana, in 1995, established their company, “Unique Adventures”, and immersed themselves in the safari industry, working at different lodges and camps within the Okavango Delta before moving back to Maun where, in 2018, “Miss Elly” began her journey from dream to reality.

(Photo of yours truly, Erica & John ... from a few years back)

At 8.5 metres long, she's an entirely self-sufficient, aluminium craft powered by two 60 horse-power engines, and carries sufficient fuel to provide for a week of cruising the pristine Okavango waterways. She sleeps four guests in two large clamshell style tents located on the upper deck, and is fitted out with a galley, dining area, refrigeration, hot & cold water on tap, a shower and toilet for your comfort.

Down river from Shakawe the waters meander at a steady pace, caressing palm islands, reed and papyrus lined banks, as well as the odd exposed sand and mud wall; ideal nesting spots for a variety of Bee-eater species. Passing through lower levels within the river system certain sand banks become exposed, offering basking space for crocodiles, as well as potential nesting sites for the African Skimmer; a very special bird that features very high up on any avid birder’s “lifer” list.

At this point it’s worth mentioning that if following our feathered friends is your thing, with over 350 recorded bird species in the area, you’ll be kept occupied for many hours. October through to March is of special mention as it offers the opportunity to view many of the annual migrants visiting the area, including the above mentioned Bee-eaters nesting in the river banks.

A few more avian highlights to be found along your way include, amongst others, the Rufous-bellied Heron, White-backed Night Heron, Lesser Jacana, Brown-throated Weaver and Painted Snipe. And let’s not forget the majestic African Fish Eagle, or the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl.

Game viewing from Miss Elly’s upper deck, refreshing cold drink in hand, offers superb vistas of the slowly drifting landscape where various wildlife may be observed, including the occasional elephant and the ever-present Hippopotamus, usually revealing themselves with their familiar grunting call long before coming into view.

In the evenings Miss Elly is moored up alongside the river or a small island where the more actively inclined are welcome to partake in a guided walk. This is also where you will spend the night, after a sumptuous meal, comfortably snuggled up in your clamshell tent, surrounded by a blanket of stars and listening to the sounds of the bush. It’s a truly remote experience.

On dedicated fishing safaris Miss Elly is accompanied by a privately guided, fully equipped tender boat, providing for daily fishing excursions to secluded spots. Fishing is based on a catch-and-release basis, with a variety of 17 different fish species, including the mighty Tiger fish, Barbel and various Bream to entice the angler.

During the months of July through to September, departures from Maun are at times on offer. This is very much dependant on the rainfall in the Angolan highlands and subsequent water levels flowing through the Okavango and into the lower Delta rivers of the Boro and Thamalakane, near Maun itself. Should the Highlands experience adequate rainfall, these floodwaters will typically arrive around July offering boating opportunities along the winding, exciting channels of the Boro River. This particular area offers up great game viewing opportunities where one will pass many bathing Elephant and large pods of congregating Hippopotamus in the channels. Herds of Red Lechwe, Impala, Zebra and Buffalo come down to the water to drink, and if you’re really lucky, maybe even a lion or two.

Trips are available all year round and John personally accompanies all tours, skippering the boat, navigating the channels, preparing the food, pouring your drinks and acting as deck hand and guide. With more than 25 years boating experience in the Okavango Delta, plus many more on lakes Malawi and Kariba, as well as the deep sea off the East coast of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa, you can relax and enjoy, knowing you’re in good hands.

All photos are curtesy of "Unique Adventures", you'll find the full gallery here ... "Miss Elly" photo gallery

Should you wish to start planning your own Okavango Panhandle adventure, or any other adventure in Botswana, please enquire here.