Bots - 4 days to fill in our itinerary

[JdV]

I'm looking for a nice spot, not too far away from Maun (3/4 day's travel max) to spend 4 days on our way to Santawani...

Not geared for camping (this time around - too many nappies!) so looking for a value-for-money, self catering accommodation... preferably 4 days in the same spot, if good enough. Tired of rushing from one spot to another, so want to take it easy.

Was thinking of Makgadigadi, but yet to find decent accommodation that wont break the bank.

Anyone have any ideas?

[andyrag]

No self-catering accommodation I'm afraid. However some of the lodges have SA resident specials. Try Meno a Kwena or Haina Safari Lodge, they're about R600pppn incl meals

[gemini]

We would certainly recommend Mena a Qwena. Stayed there on all our trips.

[JdV]

Did a bit of research - looked great.

I tried them... the initial quote was P375 pppn, which sounded too good to be true... and it turned out it was.

When they sent me the booking confirmation, it came with a "sincere" apology that they quoted me the wrong rates...2009 rates have gone up (exponentially, it turns out) and it is now +-P1500 pppn!!!!!!!!!!!

I even phoned to double check there was no error - and to make sure this is in fact the rate applicable to residents (and SA citizens). Yup. It would have cost us (4 adults + 3 young kids) almost R50 000 for 4 nights.

This is the third lodge in Bots that have now done this to me - it would seem that the rates across the board for 2009 are going up heavily, in most cases more than double. Am I the only one finding this?

Back to the drawing board...