Ngoma
Chobe Forest Reserve

Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

• The lodge is designed with sustainable materials that minimize environmental impact while blending seamlessly with the Chobe Forest Reserve’s natural surroundings.
• Low-impact architecture ensures the preservation of the local ecosystem.

Energy Efficiency

• Powered primarily by solar energy, the lodge reduces reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing its carbon footprint.
• Energy-efficient systems, including LED lighting and solar water heaters, are utilized throughout the lodge.

Water Conservation

• Located in a region where water is a precious resource, the lodge employs water-saving measures such as efficient fixtures and greywater recycling.
• Responsible water usage ensures minimal waste and sustainable access to clean water.

Waste Management

• Ngoma implements a robust waste management system, focusing on reducing, reusing, and recycling.
• Non-biodegradable waste is properly disposed of, and the lodge actively works to lower overall waste production.

Wildlife and Habitat Conservation

• By operating within the Chobe Forest Reserve, the lodge supports the protection of local wildlife and their habitats.
• Safari activities are conducted responsibly, ensuring minimal disruption to wildlife while promoting their conservation.
• The lodge partners with conservation organizations to support anti-poaching and biodiversity initiatives.

Community Involvement

• The lodge prioritizes hiring and training local staff, fostering sustainable livelihoods for surrounding communities.
• Revenue from tourism supports local development projects, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements.
• Guests are encouraged to engage with local communities, promoting cultural exchange and awareness of conservation challenges.

Guest Awareness and Education

• Visitors are informed about sustainable practices and the importance of protecting the environment.
• Activities such as cultural tours and conservation talks are designed to deepen guests’ understanding of the region’s ecology and heritage.

Big Cats

• Lion: Frequently seen roaming the reserve, with some prides exhibiting the iconic black-maned lions.
• Cheetah: Occasionally spotted hunting in the open plains, often seen chasing down prey in the early morning.
• Leopard: Elusive and solitary, leopards are usually found in the more wooded areas of the reserve, often resting in trees.

Large Mammals

• Elephants: Large herds of elephants are often seen in the region, particularly near water sources like the Chobe River.
• Giraffe: Gracefully roaming the floodplains, giraffes are a common sight as they browse on the tall trees.
• Eland: The largest antelope in Africa, eland are occasionally spotted, usually in more open areas of the reserve.

Smaller Predators

• African Wild Dog: Rarely seen, but these endangered predators occasionally roam the reserve, hunting in packs.
• Honey Badger: Known for its fearless nature, the honey badger is sometimes spotted digging for food in the bush.
• Jackal: Black-backed jackals are frequently seen during game drives, often scavenging or hunting small prey.

Herbivores

• Springbok: Large herds of springbok are commonly seen grazing on the plains, especially during the dry season.
• Oryx (Gemsbok): These striking antelopes are well-adapted to the environment and are often found in arid areas.
• Wildebeest: Frequently spotted in large herds grazing in the open areas of the reserve.

Birdlife

• Kori Bustard: The heaviest flying bird in the world, often seen strutting through the grasslands of the reserve.
• Pygmy Falcon: The smallest raptor in Africa, typically found around sociable weaver nests in the reserve.
• Vultures and Raptors: A variety of bird species such as bateleurs, tawny eagles, and lappet-faced vultures are frequently seen soaring overhead or perched on trees.

Unique Species

• Meerkats: Found in colonies, these playful creatures are often spotted sunning themselves or digging for insects.
• Brown Hyena: Rare and elusive, brown hyenas are sometimes seen at night, foraging in the reserve.
• Bat-Eared Fox: Known for their oversized ears, bat-eared foxes are insectivores and often spotted in the early morning or late evening.

Nocturnal Species (on night drives)

• Aardwolf: A shy, termite-eating species of hyena that is typically only seen on night drives.
• Porcupine: Often seen foraging at night, porcupines are relatively common but elusive creatures.
• Pangolin: A rare and highly sought-after sighting, pangolins are occasionally spotted at night, usually when foraging for ants.

Seasonal Variations

• Dry Season (May to October): During this time, wildlife gathers around the Chobe River and waterholes, making for excellent game viewing opportunities.
• Green Season (November to April): The rains bring lush vegetation, attracting migratory bird species and leading to the birth of many young animals, offering a different dynamic to the wildlife experience.