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• Wonderful animals but poor vehicle experience

  765lisae,2025年9月5日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  3.00

  My husband I did the private 11-day mobile camping safari August 3-14, 2025. While we saw many animals up close and enjoyed much of the tour (visiting 5 different locations, up close encounters, good campsites, healthy food, warm bucket showers, comfortable tents, friendly support staff), there were downsides using this company (Walking Stick Tours). We chose this safari based on past reviews (highly rated guides guides being a key component). Our guide for the two days of camping in the mokoro-accessed Okavango Delta was fantastic in every respect. Unfortunately our guide for the remainder of the safari turned out to be a freelancer and while he was an excellent tracker (led us to many great animal viewings), he was poor at communication (difficult to understand his English and did not always listen to us). I changed my mind about spotlighting one evening and decided not to after we were stuck in the sand and being afraid we would get stuck again in the dark, but the guide went ahead and did this anyway. The guide was also a very erratic driver (quick turns and stops that sent the refrigerator in the safari vehicle flying twice and injured my ankle once-only 1 seat in the vehicle had a working seat belt). The vehicles owned by the company were in poor repair - they had to bring a new battery to the support vehicle while were at a rest stop at the start of our trip, our main safari vehicle became stuck in the same mud hole twice (1.5 hours total) and we had to be pulled out, and 2 or 3 other times we were stuck in sand (half hour each). At one point we were told that the 4 wheel drive was not operating, then somehow it was OK. Finally a shaft gave out when we were in the middle of nowehere (2+ hours from any park or town) and we were rescued by another company. This led to us staying in a hotel for the last 2 nights of our trip and missing out on the camping. We were given a morning safari to make up for one of our missed drives, but only after I asked for it directly - it was not offered freely. I think the combination of poor roads, unreliable vehicles, and driving too hard and fast for the conditions likely contributed to all the vehicle-related issues. We also had one night at a park cancelled at the last minute (found out the day we we heading to the camp) without any apology, because they could not get a camping site (although I paid for the trip over 2 months prior). In summary, I cannot recommend Walking Stick Tours (in a large part due to safety issues). I would suggest that others visit all the parks in Botswana on a mobile camping safari (the camping really is fun), but go with another company.

• Excellent

  N8684NEalexanderc,2025年8月4日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  I have been on several safari tours with Mr. Phillimon since 2018. it has always been a great pleasure. During this time, a long-standing friendship has developed. Last year, the five of us had a long-awaited family safari vacation with Mr. Philimon and his team. They went out of their way to make sure we had a great time and showed us all kinds of animals and landscapes. From the first inquiry the team were very responsive . Mr. Phillimon knows Delta like the back of his hand and drives the gravel roads like an expert. He never compromised our safety. His knowledge of the animals, birds and plants is very good. He takes the time to answer our questions. Being a photographer himself, he knows the problems that arise and waited patiently as we took pictures. His sense of humor is one of his strengths. My compliments to the camp staff for the food, camp management and hospitality. As we are vegetarians, it was sometimes difficult for us. It could be due to the lack of local supplies. We would do it again. I hope it helps you with your decision.

• A unique adventure

  859sebastiang,2024年11月27日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  We went on a 10-day safari in October 2024 in the tent with Phillimon Walking Stick. During our tour we slept in 5 different places (Delta Okavango, Moremi, Khwai, Savute, Chobe). We could only strongly advise this experience and the Phillimon team. Everything was very well organized, including transfers between camps, organizing our camp life, morning and evening safaris. In addition, the airline lost our luggage and it arrived two days later, but Phillimon found us a solution to help us and he personally took care of our problem. His team took very good care of us, even in the camping conditions, we ate every day as in the restaurant. The night in the tent in the middle of nature is simply a unique experience, as we could hear the sound of animals not far from us, but at the same time we felt completely safe. We immediately noticed Phillimon’s passion for his country and for nature, he knew how to pass on his knowledge and thanks to him we saw plenty of animals during our 10 days. Communication with him and his team went very well in English. They had lots of interesting stories to tell us. If anyone really wants to do a real safari in Botswana, we recommend Walking Stick. Go with your eyes closed and let yourself be carried away by this team in the nature of Botswana.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• A beautiful experience living so close to the wildlife, unforgettable , breathtaking beautiful.

  diannaw391,2024年11月26日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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.

  

  

  

  

  

• 11 Days Bush Camping in Botswana

  Discover620424,2024年8月28日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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.

• Amazing Safari Experience

  wickbarki,2024年8月5日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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.

  

  

  

  

  

  

• Best safari experience ever

  MelanieVerwoerd,2024年6月21日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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.

• Fantastic company, ethical and honest.

  PerthDiver72,2024年2月11日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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!!!!

  

  

  

  

  

• In the heart of the bush

  peterT3886VC,2023年12月1日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  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.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• Amazing 10 days mobile tent safari in the bush

  michelepD6476SG,2023年9月4日

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  The tour has been very well organized, it was really an amazing experience. Comfortable tent, excellent food, very professional driver and guide. Thanks a lot to Philimon for the organization of the full tour, to Dylos for guiding and driving our safari (i will never forget the leopard on a three with his killed impala) , to Titous for the meals (the fresh baked bread and cakes in the bush is fantastic) and to Keys for the support (the organization of the camp, the hot shower, the cleaning etc..) . We will never forget such experience and we recommend walking stick as a professional and reliable tour operator. With Walking Stick You can stay in the middle of the bush just under the stars and fill safe hearing wildlife and birds.