WELCOME TO
THE Nature GUIDE COURSE
Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Botswana's Okavango Delta, this Nature Guide Course offers an unparalleled adventure into the heart of the African wilderness. It's not just about immersing yourself in nature, but also mastering the essential skills that every ranger cherishes.
Why Choose the Okavango Delta Nature Guide Course?
- Comprehensive Curriculum:
Dive deep into a rich educational experience that combines essential theoretical lessons on ecology, geology, zoology, climate, and weather, with on-ground field training, providing a holistic understanding of the African wilderness. - Guided by the Best:
Learn from and be mentored by experienced Okavango Delta guides. Their years of experience and in-depth regional knowledge ensures a training experience that's as informative as it is enriching. - Dynamic Field Expeditions:
Each day in the delta brings with it a new adventure. Whether you're navigating the waters on a Mokoro (dug-out canoe), trekking on foot, or exploring the vast terrain in a game drive vehicle, there's always something new to experience and learn. - Practical Ranger Training:
Engage in real-world ranger tasks, from animal tracking to firearm handling. This course isn't just about learning; it's about doing. By its conclusion, you'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to guide others through the wonders of the delta. - Daily Adventures and Insights:
Starting with early morning game drives and culminating in evening wildlife excursions, every day is packed with learning and discovery. Beyond the training, there's the magic of the African wilderness- the sights, sounds, and sensations that will stay with you forever.
Join the Nature Guide Course
For those with a passion for nature, a thirst for knowledge, and a love for adventure, this course is a gateway to a world like no other. It's an invitation to not just witness, but to be a part of the African wilderness. Get in touch with us and start planning your Okavango Delta adventure!
More insights
Highlights of the Nature Guide Course
- Master African wilderness navigation, bush survival, animal tracking, weapon handling, bird and mammal identification, and more.
- Embark on Okavango Delta mokoro adventures (dug-out canoe, seasonal).
- Experience wilderness walks and immersive sleep-outs.
- Enjoy motorboat excursions in the Okavango Delta (seasonal).
- Participate in thrilling 4x4 wildlife drives.
- Engage in unforgettable walking safaris.
- Discover the wonders of stargazing and astronomy.
- Learn from expert lectures on diverse topics, including local geology, ecology, hydrology, astronomy, and weather/climate.
QUICK FACTS
GENERAL
- Up to 8 participants, 2 or 4 week programme (optional FGASA exam), 1 to 2 start dates/month (Fridays).
- Minimum age: 18.
TRAVEL AND TRANSFERS
- Arrive/depart at Maun International Airport (MUB) on Fridays.
- 2-hour road transfer between Maun airport and Okavango Delta camp (return) included in price.
MEALS & MORE
- Full-board meals, drinking water, coffee, tea are included.
- No Wi-Fi available; cell reception limited.
ADDITIONAL ADVENTURES
- Add an incredible mobile safari in the Okavango Delta or Kalahari to your Botswana trip. Get in touch with us for details.
Activity Overview
dive into the details
Accomodation
During the Trails Guide course, you'll be staying at Kwapa training camp located near the Qwapa River in the Southern Okavango Delta. Your accommodation will be a high wall wilderness-style tent measuring 3x3 meters, equipped with a bed, night table, and LED-light. Single accommodation will be provided, but twin accommodation is available upon request. The tents have ensuite-bathrooms with a bucket shower and a typical "bush toilet." Daily meals, as well as tea and coffee, will be provided. Please note that there's no electricity available in the tents. However, there's a community charging area connected to the camp generator where you can charge small devices such as batteries, solar lamps, cell phones, etc.
Meals
During the Nature Guide Course, you'll receive three meals a day. If you have any dietary preferences or requirements, such as allergies or a special diet, please inform us at the time of booking, so our team can prepare accordingly. While vegan and gluten-free diets are possible, an additional fee may be charged due to logistical challenges. You'll have access to water, coffee, and tea at the camp. You can also purchase soft drinks during your stay, which must be paid for in cash. If you have any special requests or would like to consume alcohol, please provide advance notice so that we can ensure availability upon your arrival.
Communication
There's no internet connection available in the camp, and mobile phone reception is limited. However, in case of an emergency, a satellite telephone is available for use, and the camp has a radio for communication with the office.
Dates
14 or 28 days, please contact us for dates and availability.
Number of Participants
Each group at Kwapa Camp comprises a maximum of 8 participants and one sponsored local student. Please note that there may be two groups present at the camp simultaneously on occasion.
Prices (2024) Per Person Sharing
2 weeks - 4,350 EUR
4 weeks – 8,700 EUR
The Price Includes:
Scheduled return transfer between Maun and Kwapa Camp.
Tented accommodation.
All meals at Kwapa Camp.
Drinking water, tea, and coffee.
All training and activities at Kwapa Camp.
The Price Does Not Include:
Travel insurance.
All flights.
Personal effects, including toiletries.
Drinks other than those mentioned above.
FGASA/BQA registration and exam fees.
Booking Form & Additional Information
Upon enrolling in the Nature Guide Course in Botswana, you'll receive a booking form to fill out with personal information, contact details, medical information, and travel arrangements. Additionally, you'll receive supplementary details such as a packing list and general information about the project.
Location
Nestled in a private nature reserve near the Qwapa River in Botswana's North West District is Camp Kwapa. The camp is located within the subtropical zone of Africa, south of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO world cultural heritage site since 2014. With diverse wildlife and stunning natural scenery, the camp is an ideal spot for observing the flora and fauna of the region through various game walks and drives.
Climate & Seasons
The Qwapa River area, which is located within the Okavango Delta, experiences two primary seasons - the rainy season and the dry season.
The rainy season occurs between November and April and it is characterised by high temperatures and significant rainfall. During this time, the vegetation in the region becomes lush and green, which is why it is also referred to as the "green season." The average daytime temperatures during this period range between 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), while the nighttime temperatures are cooler and typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The wettest months are January and February, which is when the region experiences the most rainfall.
The dry season occurs from May to October and is characterized by cooler temperatures and little to no rainfall. During this period, the water levels in the delta peak as the floodwaters from the Angolan highlands finally arrive. The average daytime temperatures in the dry season range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) in June and July, which are the coldest months.It is essential to pack suitable clothing for both warm and cool weather if you plan to visit the Qwapa River area in the Okavango Delta, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, especially during the dry season.
Flight Itenerary
Your flight should be booked with arrival and departure from Maun airport (MUB) in Botswana. Same-day arrival and departure options are available
Arrival
To ensure you arrive on time for the start of the course, you may choose to arrive a day early. We can help with arrangements.The meeting point for the course is at "The Duck Café", opposite the airport building. A staff member will meet you there and take you to the reserve gate, where your instructor will greet you. From there, it's a two-hour drive to Camp Kwapa.
Departure
You may schedule your flight to depart on the last day of the course. On that day, you will depart the camp early after breakfast, store your luggage in the vehicles, say goodbye, and travel back to Maun. At the guide course's office, you can settle any remaining payments and confirm your participation in the course. After that, it's up to you whether you wish to continue your journey or return home. If you'd like to keep exploring Botswana, we're happy to assist with the arrangements.
Vaccinations
We advise consulting your doctor to ensure that you have the necessary vaccinations for your upcoming trip. Some of the commonly recommended vaccinations for travel to Botswana include:
Hepatitis A: It is suggested for all travelers to Botswana, regardless of the duration of their stay or planned activities.
Typhoid: It is recommended for all travelers to Botswana.
Yellow fever: It is mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Tetanus: It is recommended for all travelers.
Malaria is present in some parts of Botswana, particularly in the OkavangoDelta. It is advisable to seek advice from a medical professional regarding antimalarial medication options.
Visa Information
Most countries' tourists are granted a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival in Botswana. Please ensure that your passport has two blank pages for entry stamps and is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance that covers the entire duration of your trip is mandatory. You can check if you need a visa prior your arrival here. The insurance should cover emergencies and incidents, such as air rescue, hospital or medical costs, and flights. You can contact your local travel insurance agent, or consider our recommended provider, World Nomads.
Credit Card & Cash
The official currency in Botswana is Pula. Kwapa doesn't have an ATM, so we recommend bringing cash (in Pula, USD, or Euro) for purchasing additional drinks (sold in a six-pack), snacks, ammunition (which costs around 300 USD in total), staff tips (if desired), and extra cash as a backup.
"I spent 2 weeks on an amazing Field Guide course in Botswana in the Okavango Delta. Lost Adventures took very well care of me through the whole booking process, during the trip and after my return. I always felt in good hands and had all the information I needed. I will definitely choose Lost Adventures again for my next trip to the Delta."
-Vanessa Kress, Austria
WHY we love it
Step into the heart of the Okavango Delta, a world-renowned wilderness area, where this Nature Guide Course offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of African ecosystems, mastering the art of guiding through both theoretical learning and hands-on experiences.
With a curriculum that spans across essential topics like ecology, geology, and zoology, complemented by practical skills in navigation, tracking, and survival, this course prepares you for the challenges and rewards of guiding in the African bush.
Experience the thrill of navigating the delta by mokoro, engaging in walking safaris, and learning under the stars during wilderness sleep-outs, all while gaining a profound understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
Benefit from the guidance of experienced Okavango Delta guides who share their in-depth knowledge and passion for conservation, ensuring that every lesson is not just educational, but also an unforgettable adventure in one of the most stunning settings on earth.
MAKE AN ENQUIRY FOR
Nature Guide Course
Once we receive your enquiry, we will swiftly check for availability and aim to get back to you within 2 business days. Please note that sending this enquiry does not create any obligations for you.