Okavango Delta
Abu Camp
Formerly a hunting concession, then converted to an Elephant back excursion program for a time, Abu Camp is not known to be a big game destination. The Elephant back safaris ceased to operate and the concession is being rehabitated for game. The camp still operates as a classic safari camp centered around the Okavango Delta's boating and birding safaris.
Game that are abundant in the area include Giraffe, Zebra, Elephant, Impala, Tssessebe, Lechwe, Wildebeest, Buffalo and Warthogs. A resident pride of Lion at camp can be seen during the day and heard roaring through night - a thrilling sound as you lie in the comfort and safety of your tent. Also available at Abu Camp, aside from the Elephant back safaris, are game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, a special night drive, guided nature walks, bird watching and time spent drifting on the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta in a mokoro (canoe) with expert local guides.
Due to the Okavango Delta's altitude the climate is more temperate than tropical. During winter (June to August) early mornings and evenings can be cold. Summers (November to March) are rather hot, with the rains (mostly afternoon / early evening thunderstorms) occuring during November and March. Abu Camp's Elephant back safari was a rare experience. You would meet each member of the Abu Camp herd, learn their history and begin to comprehend these majestic animals. Interact with the herd, becoming a part of their family and experience something very few people get to witness on their African safari, with this off-the-beaten track experience.
Abu Camp Diaries
Abu's namesake is the legendary elephant born in East Africa in 1960 and taken to Texas when young, due to his uncommonly friendly nature, to be used as a ride elephant in a Grand Prairie 'wildlife park'. He was brought back to Africa in 1988 for a lead role in 'Circles in a Forest', and relocated to Botswana in 1990 where he was instrumental in setting up the first elephant back safaris on the continent. He continued to lead the Abu herd throughout the following twelve years. He died in 2002. The herd's matriarch, Cathy, also born in 1960, is the largest adult cow and is distinguished by her shorter left tusk. Whilst a youngster, Cathy was captured in Uganda from Murchison Falls National Park and taken to a zoo outside Toronto, Canada where she remained until she was returned to Africa for the filming of 'Circles in a Forest' and like Abu, came to Botswana in 1990. Due to her composed nature and patient temperament, Cathy once led the Elephant back safaris at Abu.
Field Notes
Elephant back safaris
As of now, the Abu elephant safari program is no longer available in its original intent. Abu camp has classic tents with activities centered around antelope species and birding.
Abu Camp
Safari Film
Abu Camp
Previously home of the Original Elephant safari experience in Africa, owned by Paul Allen, Abu Camp has now closed off the elephant back safaris once offered.
The 400, 000-acre Abu concession in the Okavango Delta featured six tents that are simply furnished, with a private viewing deck overlooking the lagoon.
Abu Camp
Safari
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