Temba

Firstly, Chitabe and Savuti are very different camps, particularly now that savuti has received so much water. In fact they have even ordered a mocoro. Second as to whether or not you should reserve a private vehicle for one (1) day. You need to know that Wilderness has established that a single day runs from Noon to Noon. Therefore you would not have the option you are trying to secure. Hope this helps. Ted

wildlifepainter

Thanks for the information about private guides Ted. I guess it makes sense. So would you pick Chitabe or Savuti in May and why?

Temba

Both are really first class with good guiding but I would give the edge to Savuti. The camp was recently renoveated and the accomodations are nearly 6 paw. The old watering hole has been replaced is now nearly a lake right in front of the main lounge area with lots of elephant activity all day long. That may change but for now the activity in camp is, and has in the past been very very good. Also, and this is not a big deal for me but is something to consider, the food is much better at Savuti. Other may have different opinions, I myself have had a great stay at both and wouldn't want to argue with those that prefer Chitabe. I think I would choose Chitabe Lediba over Chitabe (main camp) due to its smaller size. Main camp is due to be renovated before Lediba so that is something you should check. I think your odds of seeing Wild Dogs is greater at Savuti but better chance of leopards at Chitabe (Lediba or man camp). Anyway you choose, you will not regret.
Ted

atravelynn

If you would prefer to be back earlier and not participate in night drives, that can be tricky in a shared vehicle. The normal pm routine is to leave between 3 and 4 pm and then stay out until 7:30-8:30 (maybe even later in the small camps) and then come back and eat your evening meal.

It would probably not work to drop you off early at camp. Perhaps a vehicle could come meet you at sundowners and return you to camp. I've never seen this happen.

Chobe vs. Zambezi near Vic falls--For wildlife there is absolutely no comparison. The Chobe wildlife cruises, especially at sunset, have an abundance of animals as a rule. The sunset cruises on the Zambezi may include some hippos or eles in the distance, but are not billed as wildlife trips like the Chobe sunset cruises. I've enjoyed both, but on the Zambezi the goal is a nice sunset, some snacks and drinks, etc. On Chobe the focus is the animals. Try to get a boat where that is the focus--fewer refreshments.

See 10/13 7:47 for comments on Chobe in the link below.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35160392

wildlifepainter

Lynn-I just read that report and loved it and yes the river cruise is on my list! I also took note of the different types of trips to Africa. I'm in the category of limited time at this point in my life and I want a see the most I can and come back later to savor the parts I love. That being said I think I will try and swap out some permanent camps for some mobile camps so I can experience that aspect too. It's so difficult to plan for the next year's safari when you haven't experienced this year's yet. Sometimes I feel paralyzed with so many choices.

ShellCat

Wildlifepainter-

You have received so many suggestions-it may be difficult to choose.

I loved Mombo Camp last October and the viewing was incredible. We were able to stay out an entire day, at no charge, had lunch with a herd of 50 or mama ele's and babies, hippos by the dozen, birds, giraffes, zebras and impala in every direction. It is a day I will never forget. The staff is amazing, and we never had more than four people in a vehicle. If you can get into Mombo-go.

Friends just came back from Little Vumbura, and loved it and the staff at Duma Tau are all fabulous.

Best of luck with your plans, by the way, my trip was part WS and part Mala Mala last year, and had no problems booking different owners. If you would like the name of my tour operator, please let me know. Normally, I book my own trips, but Paul is the best and without him, I would not get in at the last minute as I just did-leaving in six days on a trip booked last month.

Enjoy the planning process!