Location
The perfect setting for a Botswana safari lodge, the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park stretches away from the banks of the now dry Boteti River, through its interior of scrubland and grasslands, and ending at the extraordinary salt pans in the east. The Makgadikgadi Pans are the remains of a great lake that once occupied a significant portion of Northern Botswana, covering approximately 60 000 square kilometres. Due to the absence of an outlet for the water, there was a considerable amount of salt residue left behind after the dramatic climate change, which caused the drying up of this once majestic lake. This resulted in the salt deposits which are now a well-known characteristic of this region. It is on the banks of the dry Boteti River bed that you will discover Leroo La Tau lodge.
After the start of the rainy season, this desert area teems with wildlife as herds of zebra and wildebeest graze to their hearts’ content on the wide open, green grassland plains of the Makgadikgadi. During the rainy season there is an influx of migratory bird species, while resident desert species welcome their visitors by showing off their breeding plumage - a sight that lures many a visitor to join a Botswana African safari.
At the onset of the dry season, this area is populated by up to 30 000 wildebeest and zebra, which have remained after migrating down to the Makgadikgadi in their search for rainy season grazing. The migration brings with it an increase in levels of predator activity. You may even experience the exhilaration of being caught in a stampede as predators hunt around the lodge.
Leroo La Tau is not, however, only about lion, zebra and wildebeest. The area also boasts Chobe bushbuck, leopard, cheetah, brown and spotted hyena, impala, kudu, jackal, porcupine, genet and caracal, to name but a few. In addition, there is also the possibility of seeing the rare White rhinoceros. Most unique however, are the crocodiles and an amazing pod of hippo which have survived in extremely adverse conditions for over twelve years. The hugely contrasting seasons and terrain make this area of the Makgadikgadi a unique haven for large herds and predators alike.
The Boteti River last flowed in 1993, a result of dramatic climate change and erratic weather cycles, which caused the once crystal clear waters to dry up. Leroo La Tau is built on cliffs over 10m high above this arid riverbed, and in the dry season wildlife concentrates around the water hole in front of the lodge. The main reception and lounge area of Leroo La-Tau is located at the top of these cliffs, so the raised vantage point ensures unsurpassed views of these desert inhabitants as they congregate below to quench their terrible thirst.
Accommodation
This Botswana safari lodge offers twelve luxury thatch-and-glass suites with en-suite bathrooms, each on an individual raised wooden platform. The main lounge and dining area, with its inviting wooden and thatch finishes, offers guests the opportunity to sit back and relax at the bar while listening to the wide variety of night sounds so characteristic of the African bush. Alternatively you can lounge around the pool while appreciating the herds of zebra and wildebeest that are often seen around the lodge grounds and the waterhole.
General
Electricity
Generator power (AC 220V) is available during the day and evening, when video batteries can be re-charged. Suites are equipped with a 220-volt AC plug for hairdryers, and inverted 12V lighting for night use once the generator has been switched off.
Children
No children under twelve years of age are accepted at the Lodge. No childcare or baby-sitters are provided at any of our properties. Children must be under the care of their parents at all times. Children aged 16 years and younger are to share accommodation with a parent at all times.
Access
Access is by road from Maun and takes approximately one and a half hours and 4x4vehicles are required for the last six kilometres.
Please make contact with one of our friendly consultants if there is anything more you would like to know about Botswana safaris or Botswana safari camps and lodges.