The article chronicles a unique "Fly-It-Yourself" safari where pilots navigated small planes across Southern Africa, encompassing South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.
Participants experienced breathtaking aerial views of natural wonders like Victoria Falls and landed at remote strips for immersive ground safaris featuring abundant wildlife.
The flying portion presented distinct challenges, including real pilotage on unimproved runways, dealing with fuel scarcity, navigating with outdated charts, and adapting to unique local ATC procedures and terminology.
Despite logistical hurdles like securing rental planes and local licenses, the adventure offered unparalleled freedom and the rare experience of having vast African airspace to themselves.
Bravo Kilo Echo enters the pattern to circumnavigate Victoria Falls. (Photos by Mike Venturino and Michelle Carter)|
At 6,500 feet, we could see the spray of Victoria Falls billowing above the Zimbabwe flatland 70 miles out. No GPS necessary, just head for the cloud of mist and keep the roiling Zambezi River below you.
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