We booked our 5-day trip online through Safari Bookings and were later contacted directly by Walking Stick Travel Tours via email to clarify the details. This guided safari was the grand finale of our nearly three-week holiday in Southern Africa. During the first two weeks, our group of four had been traveling with a roof-top tent, exploring the region on our own. Day 1: Arrival and Initial Safari Experience Our private group was picked up from our hotel in the morning by Philimon, our guide. After a one-hour drive in an open-door safari vehicle, we arrived at the Wildlife Management Area of the Okavango Delta. There, we were handed over to a local team of four who are experts in conducting tours in the area. We entered the Delta in two mokoros, traditional dugout canoes resembling long canoes, and were paddled for about an hour to our camp. Along the way, we encountered plenty of wildlife, including hippos, elephants, and numerous water birds. Upon arrival, we found the camp partially set up by the team. Unfortunately, the first day had a minor drawback: we weren’t served a proper lunch. It wasn’t clear why, but it seemed to be a miscommunication between Walking Stick Travel and the local guides. As we later learned, Philimon typically leads these tours himself but had delegated this one due to the low water levels in his usual area during September. In the late afternoon, we embarked on our first walking safari. Initially, we were skeptical, as walking safaris offer a much smaller range than vehicle safaris and animals are more likely to flee. However, the experience was far more immersive and rewarding. Spotting animals on foot felt thrilling and authentic, a stark contrast to the “zoo-like” feel of driving through national parks like Etosha in Namibia. Even smaller sightings, like red lechwe (gazelles) or birds, became fascinating. The sense of vulnerability on foot—especially when approaching a pond with hippos, Africa’s most dangerous animal—was both exhilarating and humbling. Our knowledgeable guide, Rowan, shared insights that left us amazed after every walk. Day 2: Extended Walk and Rare Wildlife Sightings Our second day began with a three-hour walking safari, the longest Rowan had ever done (shorter options were available). We were incredibly fortunate to spot both a hyena and wild dogs—rare encounters. We also came across elephants, wildebeest, warthogs, hippos, giraffes, African eagles, and a variety of birds. Rowan taught us fascinating details about the Delta’s ecosystem, including the sleeping habits of hippos, how elephant dung is broken down into soil by termites, and the essential role of aardvarks in creating burrows for other animals. In the evening, we returned to the water in the mokoros to witness a breathtaking sunset, a serene end to an incredible day. Day 3: Transfer to Khwai Reserve This day brought our second minor issue: the guides didn’t bring enough drinking water. While we avoided dehydration by boiling water from the Delta, this was a significant oversight for a guided tour. We departed the camp in the mokoros and met Philimon for the next leg of our journey: a 4-hour drive to Khwai Reserve. The ride in an open vehicle along a dusty, bumpy road in nearly 40°C heat was arduous, and we were relieved when it was finally over. In the late afternoon, we went on an evening game drive and were rewarded with incredible sightings, including lions, elephants, buffalos, zebras, and many gazelles. Day 4: Memorable Game Drives On the fourth day, we enjoyed two extended game drives, one in the morning and another in the afternoon. The highlight of the afternoon drive was witnessing two hippos fighting, followed by our first leopard sighting of the trip. Philimon went above and beyond, even risking a reprimand from park authorities, to ensure we could see the elusive leopard as it emerged from the bushes. Day 5: Departure Our adventure ended with a transfer back to the airport. Final Thoughts Despite minor hiccups, this was an unforgettable experience. The food was excellent, and the guides were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Walking safaris in the Okavango Delta are a must-try for anyone visiting the region. The connection to nature, the sense of adventure, and the fascinating wildlife encounters make it an experience you’ll treasure forever.

After reading many reviews of companies that operate through Botswana and the surrounding areas, we chose Walking Stick Tours and booked both 2 nights in the Okavango Delta, three nights in Moremi and three in Khwai. It was by far the best decision we ever made. Phillimon and his staff made sure we had the most memorable safari ever! We started in the delta where we met our local guide Tiger who was the most loveliest and polite guide. He took us on a few mokorro rides and also walking tours, where we got up close to elephants, giraffes, zebras and huge gathering of hippos. He knew the area inside out, and was almost like he knew the animals too, studying their behaviour and keeping up safe from a disgruntled hippo! After two nights here, we met back up with our guide Phillimon, where we were spoilt for the next week. Within minutes of entering Moremi, we saw a male and female lion up close (actually mating...) and from there it was non stop animals. They were everywhere! It was unbelievable just seeing elephants every few minutes, no shortage of giraffes, zebras, Impala, warthogs - and we were lucky to see wild dogs in action, a few leopards (one which had just hunted), lions and lots of local birds. After a few days here, we headed off to the beautiful Khwai, and because there is more water here, you get to see SO many elephants. Crossing the river, bathing in the water, drinking, having dust and mud baths - it was elephant heaven. We also had one walk right up and around our vehicle which was amazing. Even if it made my heart rate elevate. More hippos, lions, crocodiles, wildebeest, buffalo and the absolutely gorgeous baby hyenas at their den. Overally, we saw so many babies - elephants, hippos, lions - everyone had young ones with them! It's so important to use a local guide, Phillimon grew up in the Delta and is so knowledgeable. He taught us a lot about animal behaviour, and spotted absolutely everything - including a leopard hiding in a tree. He made sure we didn't leave without ticking pretty much everything off our list. His staff were also incredible. Chef Ollie - what a superstar! The most delicious camp food I have every eaten, and she even made me a birthday cake! The camp staff were very friendly and efficient and made sure our stay was perfect. In terms of the camp itself, the tent was spacious, the beds were comfy and it was so nice having a hot shower every night! We could not fault this tour at all. Even when we had a little car trouble, it was fixed immediately - or another car came to make sure we didn't miss out on any game drive time. I saw this mentioned negatively in another review but don't believe it, things can happen with vehicles and it didn't interrupt our tour one bit. Thank you to all the staff at Walking Stick. Our African safari tour blew all our expectations - it was truly the trip of a lifetime.

If you are seeking to be close to the animals, observe them from your camp chair, watch them roam through the campsite at night and early morning, then this is the safari for you. On this unforgettable 11 day journey we navigated the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta, up early for daily safaris with our knowledgable guide O.T who prioritises your safety while enriching your adventure all the time incorporating everything the magical savannah delivers. The thrill of spotting native wildlife; lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffe, impala, elephants, painted dogs, hyenas and many more all in the comfort of your vehicle, boat or mokoro. Our meals and sleep were interrupted by the call of the wild, so don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories as you soak up and sweat the harsh beauty of Botswana, Lastly, a special thanks to our "safari Squad" OT, (guide), Ollie (cook), Election (driver & camp hand) and Freddie (apprentice camp hand). Everyday you rose with a smile, great food and company as we journeyed through Moremi, Kwai, Delta, and Chobe National Park. This was a safari of a lifetime. Highly recommend Walking Stick tours to anyone who is adventurous and truly awaits to capture the African calling. Do not hesitate and book now.

The 2nd camping safari trip, this time only in Moremi and Khwai, was again very well organized and very successful in terms of game drives. The team, this time made up of 4 people, was very engaged and successfully completed their work to our satisfaction. We would particularly like to emphasize Guid Olly, who with his extensive knowledge could tell us a lot of facts about the wildlife in Botswana, although we had already been to Africa more than twenty times. With great care and skill, he always brought us very close to the respective animals and helped us to take very impressive photos and videos. One of the best Guides we met. We often encountered lions in large groups, sometimes with several cubs. We accompanied a cheetah with 4 cubs on two hunt trips, but without success. Several encounters with wild dogs, one pack with 14 puppies, were also one of the highlights. Leopards were seen less frequently. Due to the strong dominance of the lions, it lives a very isolated life in Moremi and Khwai. Thanks to Olly's very good eyesight, we were able to watch it drinking a little longer at the begin of darkness on the Khwai River. We were also very satisfied with the chef Selection. He offered us a very varied and tasty meal. We would also like to comment positively on the other members of the team. Nevertheless, there were some minor problems, which do not need to be explained in detail. We were partly dissatisfied with the equipment in the tents. The cots were very worn out and made it difficult to sleep properly and caused back problems. The cots from last year were much more comfortable. In summary, however, we can confirm that Walking Stick Travel & Tours once again offered us a well-organized and eventful trip.

This was our first time in Botswana and had never camped in the bush before. We had an amazing time, all due to our guide Gabana with his knowledge of the animals and birds and their behaviour which meant we could live in the bush safely and still have close encounters. So many memorable moments, tracking and spending time watching a female leopard as she walked in the bush in the early morning and watching wild dogs at their den in the evening, just two. We were well looked after by our camp chef Election who worked hard to provide us with tasty and filling vegetarian meals everyday, we never went hungry, and nothing was too much trouble for the camp assistants always helpful and cheerful. We have recommended Walking Stick Tours to others on our travels and would not hesitate to book with them again if we returned to Botswana.

We had an amazing time! Our guide Moses was a brilliant guide and ensured that we had a very positive experience taking home with us memories of a huge array of animals, previously only seen in books and zoos! His knowledge of animals, birds, trees and plant life was amazing! Simon and the team looked after us really well despite the challenges they faced with punctures and supply trucks. We loved our tents and found the camp beds really comfortable and the al fresco showers and loo surprisingly easy. Having animals so close to our camp made this especially magical. The river safari in Chobe was a great end to the trip, allowing us to see many of the animals a lot closer up and from a different perspective, and the transfer from Chobe to Victoria Falls went very smoothly. If we were doing this again, we would add in one or two extra days so that we could build in more 2-night stays during the holiday (we did a 5-day trip). This would make it more relaxing allowing for an occasional afternoon siesta instead of consecutive days of long drives. That said, we thoroughly enjoyed what we did despite being very tired at the end! A wonderful holiday and one that we will definitely recommend to others. On the communication side, everything was great, but an indication of the potential travel times each day (in addition to the morning and evening jeep safaris) would have helped with our planning and to manage our expectations of time on the "road".

In June 2024, we went on an 11-day safari with Walking Stick in the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai Concession and Chobe National Park. The communication with Walking Stick in advance was good; our inquiries were answered promptly. As agreed, we were picked up at our hotel in Maun and went to the Okavango Delta for 2 days. In addition to the Mokoro tour, the guided walks in particular were a special experience that we really enjoyed. It was very impressive how our guide Emanuel spotted the animals and predicted their behaviour. We never felt unsafe during these walks. We went on to Moremi, where we camped at a very nice spot on the Khwai River, with a view of elephants crossing the river. The game drives in Moremi, Khwai and Savuti were very exciting and eventful. We saw an incredible number of animals, in addition to elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, we also had some excellent lion and leopard sightings. The wild dogs with puppies were a particular highlight. Our guide Gabana responded fully to our requests, spared no effort to find the animals and always had a very good eye for great photo opportunities and optimal lighting conditions for taking pictures. The places he chose for an evening sun-downer were always very special. We really enjoyed the game drives with him. The rest of the crew was also super nice and went out of their way to make our vacation special. The tent was spacious and comfortable with the integrated shower and toilet. The food was very good and plentiful. We didn't have to sacrifice comfort during the 11 days in the wild. On the way from Savuti to Chobe River Front, our safari vehicle had damage that could not be repaired. Phillomon immediately arranged for a replacement vehicle to pick us up so that we could complete our planned game drive the same evening. It was impressive how quickly the spare part was organized and the vehicle repaired, so that we could bring our safari to a successful end without restrictions. Overall, it was a wonderful experience in the middle of the wilderness with an incredible crew and unforgettable impressions. Our best safari yet. We are already longing for a repeat of Walking Stick Safari in the next few years.

We had an incredible 6 nights with the Walking Stick team. Philimon is an exceptional guide and the rest of the team looked after us very well, with delicious meals, hot water and ready smiles. Unfortunately water levels in the delta were low so we weren't able to mokoro as planned but Philimon and Robert took us walking instead. Local staff and village connection ensure feels like you are getting the real and best deal in that they know the area incredibly well etc. Philimon's tracking in Moremi was exceptional and we benefitted hugely from his skills and contacts.

Review Walking Sticks safari. Owner guide Philemon. When choosing an African safari from a foreign destination, the choice can be confusing. Offers from tour companies in Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia and Botswana seem to be similar, however when studying the uniqueness of the Okavango river, creating the shape of a hand, as it flows into the Okavango region, forming a natural delta, home to many rare and endangered species that the choice becomes obvious. Now to narrow the choices, we prefer real close to earth safaris, not the fly in luxury lodges with day game drives but the sleep in the wild tented variety taking us back to the original safari experience. Our choice last year was Walking sticks safaris, when we traveled with friends from Maun on a eight day experience to Vic Falls. No surprise last week ( early July) this time just two of us called Philemon of Walking sticks to create a three day safari in Moremi Area. Right on time we met up, arranged to leave our vehicle for safekeeping at Walking sticks base and proceeded on our drive to Moremi Game reserve. Philemon and his team had the camp prepared, and as a local operator have designated private sites in prime areas. The tents have individual open air ablutions attached, so privacy from neighbours is in place, however if you are shy of a Lilac crested roller watching you shower or a Grey Loerie ‘go away’ bird shouting at you, then maybe this is not for you. Simon our chef produced simple and very tasty fare before we relaxed under the stars with a safety fire creating the ambience for bush stories. Yes the camp is open and in wildlife habitat, yes lions, hyenas and elephant may stroll through the camp, however if left alone do not interfere with the camp residents. If there is a Gold medal for tracker or game spotter than Philemon would win with ease. His Origin Bushmen and Tswana brings centuries of knowledge to bear on animal behavior and tracking skills. Recognition and bird-spotting, given the variety in the Delta is a true gift. Large pride of Lion, Wild dog ( becoming very endangered ) Cheetahs, Leopard, Buffalo, many Elephant, Giraffes and various types of antelope as well as numerous smaller species were spotted and photographed in the three days. Visitors return as we did, for the people we meet, the service provided and in the end we leave as friends. Botswana has a policy of low volume and higher pricing, value for money with Walking Sticks safaris, Philemon and crew is well spent.

They made our overall experience a memorable one. The team is excellent and they are very well equipped logistically and very experienced .

I have been on safaris all my life and some to the most luxurious lodges. However, this was one of the best experiences I have ever had. Being this close to the animals and amongst people who grew up with the animals truly special. Philemon and his team are experienced, nothing is too much to ask and it is extremely good value for money. Can't recommend them high enough.

Our goals for booking a safari in the Okavango area was to find someone locally-based, with a good track record, and reasonably priced, and Phil's team at Walking Stick was the perfect fit. We did a 4 day/3 night mobile camping safari (game drives in Moremi, canoe/walking safari in Okavango). Even though our flight was delayed about 12 hours, the team was flexible and let us push our safari one day back at no additional cost. Phil knows Moremi like the back of his hand and we saw everything we dreamed of, and more (he is friendly with other guides and communicated with them to find us lions, leopards, wild dogs, etc). Camp was comfortable and the cooking was great, being mindful of my traveling partner's nut allergy. Our canoe/walking safaris were also amazing. We only wished that we spent more time. Compared to what it seems other operators are charging for a similar experience, Phil's price seems competitive and the service more than worth what we paid.

Fantastic locally owned company. Phillimon and his team took the best care of us and we were treated like royalty. Actually, more like treasured family. Food was great and Phillimon's skills as a tracker and guide meant that we had some incredible sightings. I highly recommend Walking Stick Safaris!!!!

We just wanted to say a big thank you to all at Walking Stick Travel Tours for arranging such an incredible trip into the interior of the northern Botswana game reserves. We spent nine nights in three different camping locations and were well looked after by Phillimon (who did an enormous amount of skilful driving) and Wago (who was the bird species expert). Both of them spotted things well ahead of us. They were supported by a second vehicle that carried all the equipment. Prince the chef was amazing and we had wonderful meals three times a day. KB and Comfort were always on hand to help and also provided the water (hot or cold) for refreshing showers at the end of each day. After this part of the trip we went onto some lodges, obviously with the luxury of air conditioning etc, but we all considered our time on the mobile safari to be the highlight of our trip to Southern Africa because it puts you at the heart of a wildlife experience. Unlike those that come from lodges each day, we were already there, so we had an immediate advantage in spotting things from the moment the sun was up. Even during the nights we could often hear the roar of lions or hippos or the distant sound of frogs in the wetter areas. The beds were comfortable and the tents perfectly safe at night so long as you followed the guides advice. A tent is seen as a barrier and “no go” area to the wildlife that seems to accept a level of human presence. We always felt safe in camp and when out during the day. Phillimon and Wago were great company. They went out of their way to follow and find amazing scenes of wildlife in the African bush, from beautiful birds to wild dogs, leopards, lions and elephants, you name it, we saw it all. For those who like to have all their creature comforts at all times, this trip is perhaps not for you, but anyone who wants to experience the real atmosphere of the African bush, its landscape and to see nature at work, you can’t beat this immersion into the heart of it all. By moving to different camps you experienced subtle changes in climate, so from areas of water to semi arid, almost desert environments. As a result you can see at first hand the challenges and adaptations nature seems to resolve. This trip will live with us forever. Many thanks again from Peter, Rosemary & Jane.

In October 2023 three friends and I had the absolute pleasure of doing a 7 day safari in Botswana with Walking Sticks Travel & Tours. The great service began before we left Australia as we emailed to and fro asking questions and clarifying details about the trip and were provided with all the info we needed by the very helpful Kealeboga James. It was a mobile safari which meant we camped in 4 different areas. As such, we got to see different landscapes and animals through Okavango Delta, Khwai Community Area, Savute area and Chobe National Park. I arrived in Maun the day before our tour started but still I was greeted at the airport by Walking Sticks owner Phillimon who drove me to my hotel. He immediately struck me as a polite and respectful person and as we spent the week in his care he proved to also be professional, humble, flexible, trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable with regard to flora, fauna and all things nature. He was supported by a terrific, hardworking team including Chef 'Prince' (a funny fellow), another expert guide, and multi-skilled back-up people who did everything from poling the Mokoro canoes to setting up tents and completing many tasks required to look after our needs so all the hard work was done for us. Our tour began with an enthralling Mokoro trip through the beautiful pristine wetlands where we were amongst hippos, crocs, elephants and birds. Mokoro's are the main form of transport and our camping spot was inaccessible by road and located in a shady nook near the water where we could view elephants and hear the sounds of nature (eg lion's roaring) day and night. Our tents with en-suite were adequate and we enjoyed the food and gin & tonic 'sundowner's whilst watching the gorgeous sunsets. Each day we spent hours game viewing either on foot or by jeep and Phillimon had a gift at being able to track and locate all manner of wildlife including lion, hyena, wild dogs, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, baboon, leopard and a variety of antelope and birds. We learnt so much as he imparted his knowledge of their behaviour and the landscape. All our campsites were different and in lovely settings. If you are a person who loves nature and living amongst it, can be up at sunrise every day and handle the challenges of dusty, bumpy roads and hot weather (October) then this tour is for you. It is one of the most memorable experiences in my 40 years of traveling. Thank you so much to Phillimon - your integrity is a true asset. Walking Sticks is a locally owned and run business and deserves the highest praise.