No real questions at this point, just excited that we're now only about 6 weeks to departure.

We are going to Botswana, staying at Wilderness Safari camps. Three camps, Tubu Tree, Savuti and Mombo. Carol and Eric will recognize our trip as it was inspired partly by her trip report, with a similar itinerary. Same objective: wildlife!. Similar philosophy: this is a "bucket list trip" so first-class all the way.

This thing has been in the works for a long time and I'm getting antsy. Nothing much left to do but pack and get on the plane.

CLT to ATL to Johannesburg (16 hours <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Yikes.gif" alt="" />), a couple of nights there, then on to Maun and then to the Okavango Delta.

I've rented a 100-400mm lens for my Canon DSLR so I hope for lots of good photos. Several extra memory cards in reserve, along with a card reader for backup.

Hepatitis vaccines almost finished; malaria pills soon.

I doubt there's anything major I've missed but if anyone has a suggestion I am all ears.

Sounds like you are going very close to when we went. Oh, I am so envious!!! What a spectacular trip! I hope that we can go back again someday.. Make absolutely sure that you back up your pictures a couple of different ways, so you can clear off your cards each day. With regard to that long lens, I have to say that for the most part, I used mostly my shorter lens and very rarely used the long lens. I was often shocked at how CLOSE we got to the animals. If you don't have one yet, get a cheap video camera also, as one of our best memories is the video we have of about 17 lion cubs, taken at Mombo, as they walked RIGHT past our jeep. You've read our trip reports, so you know the basics, although our trip was several years ago. Most important--dress in layers so that you can take off or put on clothes as the weather warms up or cools down. And one of my most cherished momentos of the trip is a warm fleece coverup, emblazoned with Mombo on it. When I wear it, most people have no idea what Mombo is, but I do.. Memories for a lifetime! PlEASE, post a report and pictures on your return.

Lucky you: we have enjoyed our times in African countries, and safaris have been highlights. Several suggestions come to mind. Jo'Burg airport is notorious for mishandling/ losing luggage. We were advised to take old, beat up looking bags and were glad we did. A bean bag, or some cushioning for your long lens really helps when taking those great photos as does a waterproof cover for quick protection of the camera between shots. although I am not a gum chewing person, I found it helpful on dusty drives as it seemed to keep my mouth from drying out.
Best wishes for a great trip: safari salama.

we did that about 7 years ago sorta like the hills trip. we had a great time, went back 2 years later to just Namibia. had no real problems. any questions just ask. we did wilderness-safari also