I’m Simata, and I’m excited to share the details of our recent two-night camping experience at Xini in Moremi, a journey that was filled with incredible wildlife encounters and the breathtaking beauty of nature. We set off bright and early, eager to immerse ourselves in the wilderness, driving straight to Xini2. Along the way, we were greeted by an abundance of general game, which included herds of impala and wildebeest, but the real highlights were the majestic lions we spotted, which heightened our anticipation for the adventure ahead. We arrived at the campsite around 3:30 PM, where we quickly settled in and prepared for the evening’s activities.
As night fell, I led a sundowner game drive, a truly magical experience as we witnessed a variety of aquatic antelopes, such as lechwe, and vibrant birdlife, all set against the stunning backdrop of the African sunset. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the sounds of the bush as we admired the beauty around us. Dinner that night was an unforgettable affair, as a couple of lions wandered directly to our dinner table, reminding us just how close we were to the wild. To add to the excitement, a curious hyena also made an appearance near the kitchen, giving us all a little thrill before we retired for the night.
The next morning, I set out from the camp at 6:30 AM for a full day of game driving, brimming with enthusiasm for what the day might hold. Our first stop was Xini Lagoon, where we were greeted by a rich tapestry of wildlife. We encountered hyenas, antelopes, elephants, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and jackals, each adding to the vibrancy of the scene. One of the most heartwarming moments came when we spotted a cheetah with her adorable cubs, a sight that left everyone in awe. After a full morning of exploration, we moved on to Black Pool, where the abundance of general game continued to impress. Here, we enjoyed sightings of various aquatic species and several different prides of lions, each displaying their unique behaviors and interactions.
On our final day, we embarked on another early morning drive, this time at Bodumatau. The wildlife sightings were once again extraordinary; we spotted lions lounging in the sun, hyenas scavenging nearby, a solitary jackal darting through the underbrush, and even crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. Hippos were also present, their enormous bodies partially submerged in the water, creating a delightful scene. The beauty of the landscape and the thrill of seeing such magnificent creatures made for a perfect conclusion to our adventure. Throughout the trip, everything was well organized—from the delicious food to the comfortable vehicle and the exceptional team that made the experience seamless and enjoyable. Our guests truly had a wonderful experience, and I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. This adventure at Xini not only deepened our connection with nature but also left us with memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to more adventures in the wild and hope to share them with you soon!