Flying in Southern Africa with a Cirrus – Our Own Experience
Flying over Southern Africa is an experience like no other. In August 2024, our team at Bluetail Aviation set off on a 23-day journey across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, exploring some of the region’s most breathtaking destinations from the air in a Cirrus SR22. We want to take you along on our beautiful journey, sharing our discoveries, challenges, and travel tips to make your next Flying Adventure in Africa even smoother.
Days 1-4: Arrival and Preparation in South Africa
Our journey begins in Johannesburg, where we settle into the quiet comfort of Aquanzi Lodge. Over the next two days, we complete airspace familiarization training at Cirrus South Africa (CSA) in Lanseria, ensuring we are fully prepared for the flights ahead. A stay at the Cliffside Lodge provides a refreshing change of scenery before meeting our fourth traveler and finalizing logistics at Meraki Country Manor.
Days 5-6: The Kalahari
We depart from Lanseria, stopping in Upington for fuel before landing at Twee Rivieren Airstrip in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. A short drive brings us to Rooiputs Lodge, where we take in a sunset game drive, spotting hyenas, ostriches and herds of antelope against the backdrop of red sand dunes. The next morning, we cross into Namibia, clearing customs in Keetmanshoop before continuing to Elegant Desert Lodge, our gateway to Sossusvlei.
Days 7-8: Exploring Namibia
Before dawn, we head into Sossusvlei to climb Dune 45, explore Deadvlei, and take in the vast desert landscape as the sun rises. The dramatic colors and shifting sands make for an unforgettable experience. From Sesriem, we fly to Windhoek for refueling before heading to Maun, Botswana, the entry point to the Okavango Delta. A short transfer brings us to the secluded Mababe Tented Camp, where we settle in for an evening game drive in Moremi Game Reserve.
Days 9-10: Okavango Delta
Up next, we spent a full day exploring the breathtaking Moremi Game Reserve, where morning and afternoon game drives bring us up close to Africa’s iconic wildlife. From majestic elephants and powerful lions to playful hippos, every moment is an unforgettable encounter with nature at its finest. The next morning, we travel deeper into the Okavango Delta by mokoro canoe, reaching a remote campsite where we spend a night under the stars. A guided walking safari provides a different perspective on the landscape and its wildlife.
Days 11-12: Chobe National Park
We take to the skies from Maun to Kasane, the gateway to the legendary Chobe National Park. At Thebe River Camp, we embark on a breathtaking sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River, witnessing massive elephant herds gathering at the water’s edge. The adventure continues the next day with a thrilling morning game drive through Chobe’s untamed wilderness, followed by another scenic boat cruise, offering a unique perspective of the park’s rich and diverse wildlife from both land and water.
Days 13-14: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
A short flight brings us to the magnificent Victoria Falls, where we check into the charming Drift Inn before spending the afternoon exploring one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. We opted for a thrilling helicopter flight over the falls, and the view from above was absolutely breathtaking—an awe-inspiring panorama of cascading water, misty rainbows, and the mighty Zambezi carving its way through the landscape. For those seeking even more adventure, options like heart-pounding bungee jumping or a serene sunset cruise on the Zambezi River offer unforgettable ways to experience this iconic destination.
Days 15-18: Limpopo Lipadi, Private Reserve
As we cross back into Botswana, we arrive at the pristine Limpopo Lipadi Private Game Reserve, where Bluetail Aviation holds exclusive booking rights. In this untouched wilderness, we embark on thrilling foot safaris to track endangered rhinos, observe packs of wild dogs in their natural habitat, and immerse ourselves in meaningful conservation activities, all while connecting with the heart of Africa’s wildlife.
Days 19-23: Cape Town & Stellenbosch
Returning to Johannesburg, we bid farewell to our trusty Cirrus SR22. Some of us continue our journey to Cape Town, where we take in the breathtaking views from Table Mountain, explore the charming Simon’s Town, visit the playful penguins at Boulders Beach, and stand at the edge of the world at the Cape of Good Hope. The final days of our adventure are spent in the picturesque wine regions of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, savoring world-class wine tastings before heading home, filled with unforgettable memories.
Flying in Southern Africa: What to Expect
Why This Trip Stands Out
- Luxury Flying Experience: Every detail planned for a smooth journey.
- Cirrus SR22 Aircraft: State-of-the-art safety and comfort.
- Unique Accommodations: From safari lodges to luxury tented camps.
- Incredible Wildlife Encounters: Game drives, aerial safaris, and cultural experiences.
- Custom Itineraries: Tailored to individual interests.
Challenges
- Weather: though Southern Africa knows many sunny days, weather can rapidly change – especially near the east coast.
- Fuel availability: AVGAS is not widely available, and detailed planning is required to prevent unwelcome surprises.
- Runway length and elevated airfields: The scorching heat can make it tricky to depart later during the day. It is recommended to take off in the early morning.
Best Time to Go
For ideal weather and wildlife viewing, the best months to fly this route are May through September.
Plan Your Own Southern Africa Flying Adventure
Experience Southern Africa from a whole new perspective. Contact Bluetail Aviation to customize your own Cirrus Flying Adventure—where the journey is just as remarkable as the destination.
