Rra Dinare Camp

A special mention is due to our guides, Action and Godfrey. In such a short period of time they created a tremendous human relationship, as well as transmitting the culture of their people and demonstrating a profound knowledge of the ecology of the region (and showing us the big animals as well!). Many thanks to all at Kwando, but especially to the lovely people of Rra Dinare.

We also really enjoyed the daily rhythm of activities at all Kwando camps: Wake-up at 5am with coffee, a sunrise safari at 5:30am, a beautiful brunch at 11am, a long siesta to avoid the heat, afternoon tea at 4pm, evening safari with sunset cocktails, followed by a sumptuous dinner and then early to bed.

All the staff members were outstanding from Neo and Lex the managers to Jacqueline, Assange and Trudy who made us feel so welcome and made our stay special. Our guide Zulu was excellent with superb knowledge and Michael our tracker had the most exceptional eyesight. Between them using their animal behaviour knowledge and tracking skills they helped us to see the most amazing array of wildlife. Beyond our wildest dreams!

Our guide Action, and tracker, Owner, were superb, nothing was too much trouble (including getting a lens cap I dropped under the boardwalk), and the two of them worked as a team with other guides to get the best viewing experiences possible. They were brilliant in finding animals, explaining what their behaviour was and answering our questions. All sightings are carefully done, with only a maximum of three vehicles to ensure the animals are not stressed and the vehicles will swap out to ensure everyone gets a good look…

We went for the wildlife and saw far more than we expected. Some people may struggle with it as a destination though, its not for those who are tied to luxury or want to be connected all the time. There is no Wi-Fi and power sockets are limited. You can hear and see animals at all times, which can be loud, and frankly disconcerting at times. We were asleep on our last night and were awoken by a large animal, probably a buffalo, rubbing itself against the posts holding tent up, which felt like being in an earthquake. There are a lot of bugs and spiders at night. The lighting in the tents are muted making it tricky to find things after dusk. And if you are nervous flyer you may also want to think about staying. Most people arrive by light aircraft to a dirt strip. The plane is small, and it can be bumpy.

But for us, Rrra Dinare was a magical experience, a privilege to stay and will give us memories we will cherish. I would stay again in a heartbeat. Thank you to all the staff for such a tremendous stay.