best luxury safari lodges in botswana

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• African Anthology
• Time & Tide
• The Safari Collection

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners
• Newsletter Sign Up

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

The Top 25 Best Safari Lodges and Camps in Botswana

Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Matthys van Aswegen - 16 February 2023

Last Update: 10 May 2024

Botswana is consistently rated as one of the best places in Africa to go on a safari. It’s home to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park , as well as the hidden gems of the Kalahari and Linyanti. You’ll find ample opportunities to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) as well as a wide assortment of other exciting wildlife. 

Planning to go on a safari in Botswana? Get inspired with this round-up of the top 25 best safari lodges and camps in Botswana.

Mombo camp delivers authentic tented safari camping at its most luxurious in the world-renowned Okavango Delta floodplains. The camp puts a strong focus on customer experience and your every need is anticipated. Friendly and experienced guides make every game drive a trip worth remembering. 

Devotion to your satisfaction is a part of every experience at Mombo, and the deeply personalized service will leave you feeling pampered and cared for from every angle.

Highlights include:

• A photography hide
• Reliable Big Five sightings
• Scenic helicopter flights

Ideal for: Photographic safaris

Savute Safari Lodge

Nestled within Chobe National Park, Savute Safari Lodge is celebrated for its elegant accommodation and exceptional viewing of Africa’s largest elephant herds. The lodge’s strategic location offers a luxurious gateway to the wild, providing a serene backdrop for an unforgettable safari experience.

• A well-stocked library with views of watering holes
• Elevated decks for uninterrupted game viewing
• A refreshing swimming pool overlooking the Savute Channel
• Evening bonfires in a traditional boma setting

Ideal for: Birding safaris

Delightfully isolated San Camp is a must-go for anyone wanting to escape to the middle of nowhere and be immersed in the miracles of the African bush. Ensconced in the rolling golden grasslands and salt pans of the Kalahari desert, billowing white tents shaded by palm trees deliver a sense of the romantic.

This seasonal camp (November to March) is dedicated to making the most of the dry season in Makgadikgadi Pans and places a strong focus on the striking views of the salt pans and a game-loaded savannah, all of which can be scouted by horseback and quad bike (ATV).

• Delicious and innovative cuisine
• Meerkat interactions
• Bushman walks
• Tented yoga and meditation deck

Ideal for: Honeymoon safari

Tuludi Camp

Tucked away in the famous Khwai Private Concession and constructed in partnership with the local community, Tuludi camp is the ideal base if you’re looking to explore the fascinating Okavango Delta. When you’re done spotting elephants, hippos, lions, and leopards, settle into the stylish and polished camp to admire the breathtaking views of the spectacular wilderness in the shade of acacia trees.

• Private vehicle and guide with the family suite
• Mokoro safaris
• Night drives
• Excellent big game viewing

Ideal for: Family safaris

Jack’s Camp

Jack’s Camp is an iconic destination, offering a glimpse into an ancient landscape untouched by time. Set against the vastness of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, this camp is a sanctuary for those looking to step off the beaten path and into a world of exploration and wonder.

• Opulent safari tents with indoor and outdoor showers
• A plush, Persian rug-adorned mess tent for communal dining
• A refreshing pool pavilion for relaxation in the desert heat
• Private, guided walks to ancient baobab groves
• A specialist spa tent offering traditional treatments

Ideal for: Luxury safaris

Chobe Chilwero

Overlooking the sparkling Chobe river and limitless bushveld, Chobe Chilwero is a dreamy riverside retreat on the edge of the Chobe National Park. Whether you choose to explore the plains on a game drive or make your way along the waters in a boat, you can look forward to incredible wildlife encounters with lions, leopards, hippos, wild dogs, and buffalo.

Of course, no trip is complete without spotting the majestic elephants the area is famous for. A stay at Chobe Chilwero is everything you could hope for from a Botswana safari.

• Spa treatments in a treetop room
• A kids’ safari program
• Reliable elephant sightings
• Boat cruises on the Chobe river
• A tour of Victoria Falls in neighboring Zimbabwe

Ideal for: Family safari

Xugana Island Lodge

Xugana Island Lodge is a jewel within the Okavango Delta, offering an intimate setting for those wishing to connect with nature. Surrounded by water, this lodge is a haven for bird enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility in a lush, aquatic environment.

• Overwater chalets with panoramic delta views
• An elegant dining area set on a wooden deck above the water
• Sundowner cruises on the Xugana Lagoon
• A private bird hide for ornithology enthusiasts
• An open-air boma for atmospheric dining under the stars

Ideal for: Water-based safari

Situated in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, Okuti camp’s one-of-a-kind domed suites are built using wood, reeds, and canvas. Beneath the exterior of these masasas (houses of reeds) lies a lush interior with comfy furnishings. Each suite is raised on a wooden deck with rooms overlooking the tranquil Maunachira channel and Moremi’s flourishing wetlands. Expect views guaranteed to instill a sense of wonder and inner peace.

• Exploring the Delta by motorboat
• Custom safari vehicles for unparalleled game viewing
• Abundant birdlife

Ideal for: Birding safari

Sanctuary Baines’ Camp

The elegant and stylish Baines’ Camp delivers the classical safari experience with a twist of romance. Perfectly suited to couples, the camp offers a range of intimate activities from candle-lit dinners under the Milky Way to languid sunset mokoro rides on the Delta, dips in the star bath, and peaceful nights in a star bed where you can drift off counting shooting stars.

• Eco-friendly camp
• Boat cruises

Ideal for: Romantic safari

Leroo La Tau

Perched above the western bank of the Boteti River, Leroo La Tau offers a panoramic vista of the Makgadikgadi Pans. This lodge is a sanctuary during the dry season, as herds of zebra and wildebeest congregate at the river, offering an unparalleled wildlife spectacle.

• Cliff-edge chalets offering expansive views of the Boteti River
• A floodlit waterhole attracting nocturnal wildlife
• A serene infinity pool with panoramic wilderness views
• Themed cultural evenings with traditional music and dance
• An observatory deck for stargazing sessions

Ideal for: Zebra migration safari

Vumbura Plains

Somewhere between a beach house and a log cabin, each Vumbura Plains suite tucked away in the African wilderness delivers a light and airy escape from it all. The camp exudes a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere with an elevated deck that lets you take in the awe-inspiring views of the Delta’s floodplain. Guaranteed to have you soaking up the magic of the African bush with every breath.

• Walks safaris
• Hot-air balloon rides (April to September)

Ideal for: Mokoro safari

Moremi Crossing

Moremi Crossing, a pioneer in eco-friendly camping, stands on a palm island, offering a sustainable way to experience the heart of the Okavango Delta. Emphasizing conservation and community involvement, this camp invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the delta.

• A lounge and dining area built around ancient trees
• Spectacular sunset views from the elevated deck
• A variety of dining settings, including private bush dinners
• Nature walks led by experienced guides focusing on conservation

Ideal for: Affordable Okavango Delta safari

Xigera Safari Lodge

Be pampered at Xigera safari lodge, where comfort and style are the name of the game. Enveloped in the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta and its riverine forests, this 5-star destination will have you relaxing in the lap of luxury. From gourmet dining to top-class spa treatments, every aspect of your stay is designed to maximize well-being and deliver an unforgettable safari experience.

• Wellness center
• Fine dining
• Photographic safaris

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Rustic meets elegant at this spellbinding destination, where you have uninterrupted views of lush mopane woodlands and flooded grasslands. Nxabega is everything you’d expect from a 5-star hotel, from its opulent comfort to personalized service. Enjoy gourmet dishes or grab a coffee from the in-house barista before you retreat to your hanging daybed to soak up the wonders of the bush.

• Catch-and-release fishing trips
• WILDchild activities for kids

Ideal for: Kid friendly safari

Nestled on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Jao Camp oozes opulence and is only accessible by air. Built on a couple of levels rising into the tree canopy, this awe-inspiring safari destination incorporates natural materials and unique construction to deliver an out-of-this-world setting.

With floor-to-ceiling glass panels, you’re guaranteed awe-inspiring views of the verdant bush, while contemporary furnishings blend with local art and carvings for a sophisticated feel.

• Seasonal star-beds for nights under the Milky Way
• A one-of-a-kind spa
• Exclusivity in a private concession

Ideal for: Luxury Okavango Delta safari

Eagle Island Lodge

Positioned in the Delta’s stunning Xaxaba Island, Eagle Island lodge delivers a safari experience quite unlike any other. Here, timeless luxury meets Africa’s unique water-based experiences, skipping the rumbling 4×4 vehicles in favor of mokoro rides and barge cruises. Expect up-close sightings of wildlife like hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and all the big cats at this one-of-a-kind destination.

• Horseback riding
• Fish Eagle Bar on the water

Ideal for: Horseback safari

Selinda Camp

Located on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, Selinda Camp incorporates traditional African materials of wood, thatch, and canvas to blend in with its pristine surroundings. Unique and contemporary design meets the highest levels of luxury, with jaw-dropping views of the Selinda Reserve’s endless wilderness.

Keen photographers will be blown away by the resident hide’s spectacular views of wildlife and the custom-built safari vehicles that make sure you can capture those amazing shots.

• Reliable sightings of African wild dogs and lions
• One-of-a-kind architecture
• Walking safaris
• Boat cruise

Ideal for: Walking safaris

• Chobe Game Lodge

Moorish architecture and mind blowing decor make a stay at Chobe Game Lodge an unforgettable experience. As one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, this remarkable feat of design delivers the ultimate in luxury stays. Outstanding views of the wildlife-packed Chobe River are coupled with excellent levels of service, fine dining, and opulent accommodations. With such an upscale experience, you’ll be forgiven for forgetting you’re in the middle of the wilderness!

• Eco-friendly electric safari boats

Ideal for: Chobe river safari

Camp Moremi

Go off-grid without leaving behind the creature comforts of the modern world. Camp Moremi delivers the classic safari experience with classy thatch and canvas safari tents, guaranteed seclusion, and opulent levels of service. Moremi Game Reserve plays host to daily game drives, sunset cruises on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, and leopard-spotting excursions.

• Privacy and hyper exclusivity
• Boating safaris
• Incredible views of the Xakanaxa Lagoon

Ideal for: Xakanaxa safari

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Tucked away in the depths of the Okavango Delta, Sandibe is ensconced in the forest canopy and tranquil waterways. The ultra-luxurious setting, unmatched levels of service, and awe-inspiring views combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever. Cool off in the plunge pool between game drives spotting wildlife like elephants and lions while the friendly staff anticipates your every need.

• Distinctive architecture
• WILDchild kids’ program
• An interactive kitchen

Ideal for: Luxury safari

Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

Taking its inspiration from the plentiful water lilies of the Delta, Xaranna’s blend of chic yellows, lily pinks, and olive greens creates a calming atmosphere that will have you feeling at one with nature in no time. Unwind in comfort and soak up your time away from society while the staff takes care of your every need. Xaranna is the perfect place for couples and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the miracles of the wilderness.

• Kids’ activities

Ideal for: Family safari in the Okavango Delta

Tucked away in a verdant riverine forest surrounded on all sides by open floodplains, Abu camp focuses on heart-stopping encounters with its resident population of African elephants. This ultra-luxury camp gets its name from a local bull elephant and the camp’s light grey color palette goes even further to entrench the aesthetic. If you’re looking for a completely unique getaway, Abu Camp won’t disappoint.

• Star-bed sleepouts under the African sky
• Water-based safaris
• Elephant experiences

Tubu Tree Camp, situated on the remote Hunda Island in the Okavango Delta, offers guests a unique blend of water and land-based safari experiences. With its diverse habitats, the camp is renowned for its leopard sightings and varied wildlife. Each of the eight luxurious tents provide stunning views of the floodplains. 

• Wildlife viewing hide

Ideal for: Photographic safari

King’s Pool Camp

With breathtaking views of the King’s Pool Lagoon and the wildlife-packed Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, you’ll feel like royalty at this idyllic destination. 5-star accommodations and service meet the quintessential safari experience, and spacious, elegantly decorated suites will have you unwinding in no time. Extensive use of thatch and wood blend in seamlessly with the wonders of the bush, creating an atmosphere of sublime relaxation.

• Reliable predator sightings
• Opulent suites

Chief’s Camp

Safari chic meets tranquil luxury at Chief’s Camp. Situated in the heart of the Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve, here you’ll experience the very finest of what Botswana has to offer. Enjoy incredible views of the Piajio floodplain and all the creature comforts you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Reliable predator sightings and Big Five game viewing combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever while unmatched levels of service anticipate your every need.

• A children’s play area
• Reliable rhino sightings

Ideal for: Big cat safari

The Top 10 Safari Lodges to Visit in South Africa in 2024

The Resurgence of Solo Safari Travel in a Post-Covid World

Related Safari Tours

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you're planning to travel with..

Photographic Tour of Botswana

Botswana Chobe Moremi Okavango Delta Southern Africa

From $ 3615 /USD

Young Explorers Safari in Botswana

Botswana Central Kalahari Game Reserve Moremi Okavango Delta

From $ 8900 /USD

Zimbabwe and Botswana Ultimate Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Mana Pools Hwange Botswana

From $ 15700 /USD

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us, diane du plessis was so very helpful and personable.

10 Day Kenyan Safari Review

Kristan Soboleski, United States 27 Dec 2023

Professional and experienced.

Safari Review: 13 Day Southern Africa

Billy, Hong Kong SAR China 12 Jul 2023

Megan was phenomenal. always responded to every question we had.

Kruger Shalati & Nkorho Bush Lodge Review

Pramila, United States 14 Aug 2022

Amazing experience.

SA Safari Review

Preeti, Canada 01 Dec 2019

Amazing moremi game reserve safari..

Moremi Game Reserve Safari Review

Karen O’Connor, United States 24 Apr 2018

We were so impressed with how good and excellent everything was planned.

Excellent Service by Discover Africa Review

Maryna Lamberton-Kimble, South Africa 01 Jul 2013

Join our newsletter.

Sign up to receive exclusive offers, safari inspiration, and expert tips straight to your inbox.

By proceeding you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions .

POPULAR DESTINATION

Popular tours.

• Luxury Explorers Safari in Botswana
• Romantic Cape Town & Luxury Safari
• Masai Mara and Serengeti Combo
• Wildlife and Gorillas of Rwanda
• Luxury Honeymoon in Mauritius

POPULAR ACCOMMODATIONS

• Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
• Khwai Lediba
• Camp Okavango
• Khwai Leadwood

QUICK LINKS

• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• [email protected]

Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana 2023

Botswana is not only regarded as one of the most exclusive safari destinations in africa, but one of the most remarkable wilderness areas on earth..

Beyond being one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, Botswana offers tourists, travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts the very best combination of romance, adventure, luxury, and exclusivity. Paired with phenomenal game viewing, vast unspoiled landscapes, expansive lush green surroundings, wide-open plains domed by starlit skies and teeming with wildlife, sunsets that will leave you swooning, an endless array of exceptional destinations and attractions to explore, and several unforgettable experiences and adventures you won’t find anywhere else than right here in the glorious African safari destination that is Botswana – It isn’t hard to understand the allure of this highly sought-after African safari destination. And let’s not forget the sheer unapologetic beauty of the African bushveld.

Deemed Southern Africa’s most premier wildlife and safari destination, Botswana beckons travellers from all around the world eager to witness and experience her wild, untamed, and unapologetic beauty, extraordinary wildlife, and remarkable diversity first hand. With more privacy and once-in-a-lifetime experiences than anywhere else on earth, we have no doubt that you will fall head-over-heels in love with this magical African safari gem.

PREMIUM LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN BOTSWANA

Boasting ultra-luxurious accommodation, lavish facilities, and superb safari experiences – Botswana is any avid traveler’s dream come true. Accommodation in Botswana is set within the heart of the wilderness and positioned to provide true away-from-it-all indulgence. With panoramic views of its pristine wildlife and stunning savannah, the only ‘interruptions’ you’ll encounter are wandering elephants, curious giraffe or, if you’re lucky, a lion basking in the midday sun.

When it comes to its spectacular array of exclusive and luxury accommodation options, Botswana offers guests a pristine level of privacy that is simply unparalleled and impossible to find in any other African safari destination.

To ensure you experience the very best of what Botswana has to offer, here are some of the top 10 luxury safari lodges in Botswana that should undoubtedly be on your short-list when travelling to this incredible African wilderness destination.

#1 Tuludi Camp

Tuludi Camp is set in Botswana’s renowned Khwai Private Reserve on the fringes of the vast and virtually untouched freshwater wetland of the Okavango Delta. With only a handful of camps in this exclusive 200,000 hectares Concession, guests are able to revel in the pure serenity, luxury, tranquility, and unapologetic beauty of the unspoiled Delta wilderness. Sophisticated, intimate and with every detail attended to, Tuludi Camp offers an iconic Delta experience in the most refined surroundings.

Commanding breath-taking views over the magnificent Okavango Delta, with floodplains backed by majestic riverine forests, Tuludi overlooks a permanent waterhole frequently visited by elephants, big cats (lions, leopards, and cheetahs), and a vast diversity of wildlife.

Comprising of 7 luxurious tree-house style suites, including double and family tented suites, each suite features the utmost in privacy, exclusivity, and lavish luxury, complete with its own private plunge pool, deck, and a sunken lounge, beautifully complemented by magnificent views of the glorious Delta floodplains.

For those looking to add a bit of romance to their safari experience, Tuludi features a star suite, which offers guests the opportunity to spend a night under the stars in the African wilderness.

Tuludi’s main area boasts several incredible viewing decks, a unique treehouse library, a fire pit for starry Delta nights, and a large swimming pool, all overlooking the camp’s famous waterhole.

No day will be the same at Tuludi Camp, and with exciting 4×4 game drives, guided walking safaris and exhilarating water-based game viewing by means of a motorboat or mokoro (traditional canoe), you’ll discover the best the Okavango Delta has to offer.

#2 Xigera Luxury Lodge

Video by: xigera safari lodge – botswana.

Xigera Luxury Lodge is a premium 5-star safari lodge located in the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, in the unspoiled Okavango Delta region of Botswana. The lodge is situated on a private island within the Delta and offers guests the ultimate African wilderness escape along with a truly exclusive and immersive safari experience that promises to exceed all your expectations.

Photo credit: Xigera Safari Lodge

Xigera features 12 uniquely designed, spacious, and lavish suites, with each suite boasting ultra-luxurious features and amenities such as a private deck, indoor and outdoor shower, personal plunge pool, and absolutely everything you could possibly need to enjoy an unforgettable stay. All of Xigera’s luxury suites are positioned / elevated above the magnificent Delta, allowing for absolutely spectacular views of the Okavango Delta itself as well as the stunning surrounding wilderness and wildlife roaming the area – It is down-right breath-taking. The suites are built with sustainable materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and landscapes.

In addition to pristine luxury suites with extraordinary panoramic views, guests at Xigera can look forward to enjoying a vast range of exciting bucket-list worthy safari activities, experiences, and adventures, including exhilarating game drives in open 4 x 4 safari vehicles, thrilling bush walks led by highly experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate guides, as well as authentic mokoro (traditional dugout canoe)  safari excursions which gives you the incredible opportunity to explore and experience the amazing Botswana and Delta wilderness in a whole new way and spot an array of wildlife you wouldn’t otherwise have seen or encountered on a traditional land-based game drive.

As the lodge is home to a vast diversity of wildlife, including the iconic African Big5 – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes – guests can look forward to sensational up-close wildlife sightings and encounters. Avid bird-lovers will also be more than thrilled by the abundance of bird species that call this top luxury safari lodge home.

Beyond Xigera’s exciting variety of safari experiences and activities, the 5-star lodge offers guests an incredible range of amenities to make their stay as pleasant, comfortable, and memorable as possible. From a refreshing swimming pool, library, fitness centre, and a restaurant and bar, serving a variety of gourmet dishes and beverages, to a lavish spa where guests have the opportunity to completely unwind and relax by indulging in a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatment options, all designed to not only pamper and revive, but to help guests connect with nature and the glorious African bushveld as well as promote an overall sense of wellness.

That’s not all! Xigera also offers a range of remarkable and unique experiences, such as stargazing, bush dinners, and cultural village visits. Guests can also participate in conservation activities and learn about the lodge’s efforts to protect the environment. There truly is something for everyone to experience and enjoy at Xigera!

Overall, Xigera Luxury Lodge is an exceptional safari destination, offering guests a rare blend of luxury and wilderness immersion in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations

Top reasons to visit / stay at Xigera luxury lodge in Botswana:

While there are countless reasons why guests should visit Xigera Luxury Lodge in Botswana, here are merely a few:

• Stunning natural surroundings : The lodge is located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, one of the most beautiful and diverse wilderness areas in Africa.
• Luxury accommodations : The lodge offers spacious and beautifully designed suites that provide a luxurious and comfortable base for exploring the delta.
• Unique safari experiences : Xigera offers a range of safari activities and experiences that allow guests to get up close and personal with the wildlife and natural beauty of the delta.
• Commitment to sustainability : The lodge is committed to sustainable tourism and works to protect the environment and support the local community.

It’s safe to say Xigera Luxury Lodge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a luxurious and unforgettable safari experience in the heart of the African wilderness.

#3 Mombo Lodge

Mombo Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana. It is widely considered to be one of the best safari lodges in Africa, as well as one of the most exclusive and luxurious lodges in Botswana. This is largely owed to its sensational location, stunning wilderness surroundings, world-class amenities and features, and beyond exceptional and exhilarating African safari experiences, bucket-list worthy activities, and unforgettable safari adventures. There is absolutely no denying that Mombo Lodge is by far one of the top luxury safari lodges in Botswana.

As Mombo Lodge is situated in the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, which is home to a vast diversity of wildlife including the sought-after African Big5 (elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos), as well as an incredible variety of antelope and countless amazing and rare wildlife and birdlife species, it offers guests a truly unique and unforgettable African safari experience with excellent up-close game viewing opportunities and encounters.

Guests can look forward to enjoying a range of exhilarating and memorable safari activities, experiences, and adventures, including exciting game drives in open 4 x 4 safari vehicles, thrilling guided bush / nature walks led by highly experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate guides, authentic mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) safari excursions, birdwatching, stargazing right in the heart of the African bushveld, enthralling night game drives, which offer a chance to see nocturnal animals such as hyenas, porcupines, and honey badgers, and so much more.

Mombo lodge itself features nine spacious and luxurious tents, each with its own private deck, outdoor shower, and en-suite bathroom. All tents are beautifully designed and decorated with elegant furnishings, comfortable beds, and a range of modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay.

Guests can also enjoy excellent dining at Mombo Lodge, with delicious meals served in the camp’s main dining area or outside under the stars and moonlight. The lodge also boasts a stunning infinity swimming pool, a cosy lounge area with comfortable seating and a fireplace, a bar, library, and a lavish spa, where guests can fully relax and unwind after enjoying a thrilling day of safari adventures in the bush.

Overall, Mombo Lodge is a wonderful choice for those looking for a luxury safari destination and experience in Botswana, with excellent game viewing, luxurious accommodation, top-notch facilities and amenities, exceptional dining, and a truly unique, unforgettable, and world-class African safari experience, all in the heart of one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife reserves. What more could you possibly ask for?

Top Reasons to Visit Mombo Lodge:

• Exceptional Safari Experiences – Mombo Lodge is located in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, offering guests a chance to see an incredible array of wildlife.
• Luxurious Accommodations – The lodge offers spacious and beautifully appointed tents, each with its own private veranda and outdoor shower.
• Exceptional Dining – The lodge’s chefs are renowned for their creative and delicious cuisine, which is served in a beautiful and intimate setting.
• World-Class Amenities – Mombo Lodge features a beautiful infinity pool, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, a bar, and a library, ensuring that guests have everything they need to relax and enjoy their safari experience.
• Unmatched Service – The lodge’s staff is warm, friendly, and attentive, ensuring that guests feel welcome and well-cared for throughout their stay

#4 Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is an intimate, exclusive, and rustic tented camp with a contemporary safari elegance situated in Botswana’s vast and virtually untouched freshwater wetland of Okavango Delta. Deemed one of the world’s premier wilderness areas and largest inland deltas, the Okavango Delta covers between 6 and 15 000 square kilometres of Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana and owes its existence to the Okavango (Kavango) River, which gives rise to the Delta’s vast and dynamic ecosystem.

Ideally positioned to explore the magnificence of the Okavango Delta, Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is set within a 25,000-hectare (61,775-acre) private wildlife concession on the edge of the Delta, bordering the renowned Moremi Game Reserve; offering exclusive entry into one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

The small size of Nxabega ensures a luxury safari experience that is both exclusive and peaceful.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp & Okavango Delta Wildlife

There are few wild destinations on Earth that offer the same unique combination of spectacular wildlife, beautiful scenery, palm-fringed waterways, remote islands, and vast unspoilt wilderness than Botswana’s Okavango Delta.

Deemed one of the world’s premier wilderness areas and largest inland deltas, the Okavango Delta is home to an abundant and remarkable diversity of wildlife and birdlife. As the Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is situated near the channels of the Delta, guests can look forward to excellent game viewing opportunities and unique and thrilling wilderness experiences and adventures.

Unlike most river deltas the Okavango River empties onto open land, flooding the savanna and creating a unique and ever-changing inland delta. The Okavango Delta is affected by seasonal flooding, with the delta floods covering over 6,175 square miles/ 16,000 square kilometers every year. The Delta’s peak flood season takes place during May – October (with water levels being at its highest during June – August).

The Delta’s peak flood season coincides with Botswana’s dry season, which in turn coincides with great migrations of plains game from the dry hinterland. During the Okavango Delta’s dry season, around 260,000 mammals are estimated to congregate around the delta, resulting in pristine wildlife sightings and encounters.

The Okavango Delta is known as a world-famous stronghold for predators, including lion prides, cheetah, and leopard, as well as one of the best places to see the African Big 5, elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion, leopard, and several rare wildlife species. The Okavango Delta is also where you’ll find one of the richest pack densities of the endangered African wild dog.

When exploring the Okavango Delta keep an eye out for its semi-aquatic antelopes, the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga antelope, as well as roan and sable antelope frequently spotted in the open woodlands of the Delta.

A myriad of species, including zebras, giraffes, blue wildebeest, brown and spotted hyena, warthogs, baboons, to mention merely a few, can frequently be sighted on the Okavango Delta floodplains. Be sure to venture to the edges of the Delta, where land blurs with water, and marvel at breeding herds of elephant splashing gently through shallow channels – it truly is a bucket-list worthy sighting and safari experience.

The Okavango Delta is also home to several nocturnal wildlife species, including the rarely spotted serval and pangolin, which can be spotted on a night drive. Also keep an eye out for families of hippos that come out of the water at night to graze.

In addition to its vast diversity of wildlife, the Okavango Delta is a renowned birding destination, boasting over 500 bird species, including several sought-after species such as the Pel’s Fishing Owl (the world’s only fish-eating owl), bee-eaters and kingfishers.

What to do at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Activities & experiences.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp boasts a range of unique and exciting experiences that can be added to your journey.

Safari Game Drives in the Delta

Explore the thrilling wildlife diversity of this large private concession on exclusive morning and afternoon game drives that continue after sunset. Game drives in the Okavango Delta are remote and secluded, with very few safari vehicles sharing the private concession. &BEYOND’s Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp’s professionally trained safari guides tailor game drives to each guest’s preferences, promising up-close views of unique wildlife, birdlife, and flourishing vegetation.

In this untamed landscape, sensitive off-road driving practices allow you to get up close to the area’s exceptional wildlife, for an authentic safari experience unlike any other. Each game drive is an adventure, balancing along narrow wooden bridges and splashing through shallow crossings in a rugged open safari vehicle.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp also offers exciting night drives where you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of the Delta’s incredible nocturnal wildlife species such as the rarely spotted serval and pangolin

Mokoro Boat Safaris

Undoubtedly one of the top things to do, and certainly one of the most thrilling too, when visiting Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp in Botswana’s Okavango Delta is go on a traditional mokoro boat safari. Glide through a maze of clear channels, waterways, and opaque lagoons on traditionally made mokoro boats, once carved out of ancient Delta trees, but now made from environmentally friendly fibreglass.

Going on an authentic mokoro boat safari gives you the opportunity to explore the Okavango Delta like you never have before, all while sitting mere centimetres above the water as you silently pass by unsuspecting wildlife. At the heart of the Delta lies a secluded network of waterways and islands where life slows down even further. Encounter grazing herds of elephant and red lechwe on palm islands, while crocodiles and hippos wade nearby under the watchful eye of the elegant African fish eagle.

Not only is going on a mokoro boat safari in the Okavango Delta one of the most unique, not-to-be-missed bucket-list worthy experiences, but the ultimate way to discover the Delta’s hidden gems, secret spots, and rare sightings you’d miss on a traditional game drive.

Guided Walking Safari

Going on a guided walking safari through some of Africa’s best game viewing territory is perfect for all nature and wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience something slightly more adventurous and adrenalin-inducing. With a fresh and thrilling view-from-the-ground, you get to discover a multitude of natural wonders, tread in the tracks of the Delta’s diverse wildlife, experience exceptional (and often hair-raising) wildlife and remarkable birdlife sightings, explore off-the-beaten-track hidden gems, and fully immerse yourself in the Delta wilderness, all in the company of your highly experienced walking safari guide.

Going on a guided walking safari in the Okavango Delta also gives you the opportunity to learn about and discover the complexities of tracking; observe exactly how your guide interprets the signs and sounds of the bush; smell and taste the wild herbs of the Delta as your guide explains their traditional uses; and explore the many small miracles of the bush you’ll typically not see – from the magnificent tapestry of a spider’s web to the microscopic world of the dung beetle. A Delta walking safari truly is a dynamic bucket-list experience and adventure guaranteed to captivate and engage all your senses.

Boating in the Delta

Explore the tranquil waterways and intricate network of winding channels and glassy lagoons of the Okavango Delta onboard a sleek, motorised boat. Covering great distances, you’ll be able to discover everything the Delta has to offer from an entirely different vantage point.

Besides magnificent views of the watery landscape, the unique perspective from the boat offers great sightings of water birds, such as ponderous herons, colourful bee-eaters, solemn owls, and jewelled kingfishers. Keep a look out for tiny reed frogs clinging to stilt-like grass, creating colourful dots along the water’s surface, as well as several of the Delta’s wildlife species that are harder to spot on a traditional game drive. Going on an exhilarating boat cruise is by far the best way to discover the watery heart of the Okavango Delta’s vast and majestic landscapes.

Scenic Helicopter Flight

Take to the Okavango Delta skies by enjoying an exhilarating scenic helicopter flight when visiting Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp. The Delta is one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena, featuring a series of both permanent and fleeting waterways and floodplains created when the waters of the Okavango River sink into the sands of the Kalahari Desert.

With many of the Delta’s remote areas generally inaccessible or not reachable in any other way, an aerial perspective is one of the best ways to get a true feeling for the Delta’s vast land-water spaces. Keen photographers and thrill seekers can even opt to have the doors removed for unrestricted views of the unfolding vistas below.

Catch-and-Release Fishing

In addition to being deemed one of the world’s premier wilderness areas, the Okavango Delta is also renowned as one of Africa’s top fishing destinations due to its diverse variety of fish. Seasonal catch-and-release fishing excursions take place in the Panhandle region, where the Okavango River feeds into the labyrinth of channels and lagoons that make up the heart of the Delta wetland.

Notable fish species include the African pike and the sleek catfish. If you are after the impressive Tiger fish, embrace your adrenalin-fuelled inner angler, and set your rod up at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp, cast it into the water and watch for the lightning quick olive-coloured back and silvery underbelly of your catch.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp Accommodation

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is renowned for its elegant and luxurious, yet rustic tented accommodation. Boasting breathtaking views of mature mopane woodlands, seasonally flooded grasslands, and expansive lagoons and channels, it offers guests the ultimate escape in the heart of the Delta wilderness.

Tucked away in a riverine forest, this exclusive Okavango oasis boasts nine luxury tented suites, including a spacious family suite with an enclosed interleading walkway. Blending harmoniously with the environment, the nine private Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp suites are set on raised wooden platforms, cradled under a canopy of towering ebony trees. Each of the en-suite tented suites are linked to the main lodge by a sandy path through the bush along the edge of the island.

All of Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp suites are the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. From spacious and stylishly furnished indoor and outdoor living areas, open-designed en-suite bathrooms boasting both an indoor and screened outdoor rainshower, to an extended private veranda and deck complete with a shaded sitting area, irresistible hanging daybed, and glorious Delta outlooks – Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp will exceed all your expectations.

The thatched main area of this premier Delta wilderness escape is surrounded by large wooden decks on several levels, featuring comfortable seating from which to admire beautiful uninterrupted views over permanent floodplains where game is plentiful. As the 25,000-hectare private wildlife concession within which Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is situated is unfenced, guests are often lucky enough to enjoy views of passing elephant families, the matriarchs gently keeping their little ones in line and guiding them through the glistening water.

Expansive indoor and outdoor sitting and dining areas include a range of guest-pleasure amenities that can be enjoyed right throughout your stay, including, but certainly not limited to: an interactive food and coffee bar complete with trained baristas; an idyllic fireplace setting ideal for enjoying a nightcap during the colder months; an exquisite and extensive pool area with stunning shaded salas and loungers perfect for soaking up the African sun or savouring a poolside cocktail; a dedicated massage sala; and a spectacular open-air boma, set under the dappled shade of the camp’s massive ebony trees, ideal for those buffet feasts under the stars. And that’s merely scratching the surface of what this exclusive and intimate &Beyond Okavango Delta hidden gem has to offer.

Additional Amenities:

• Al Fresco Dining
• Stunning sparking pool
• Signature shop
• Massage Sala / Wellness Treatments
• Bar & Lounge

Best time to go to Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp & the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta’s winning combination of permanent wetlands and abundant resident wildlife makes it one of the top year-round safari destinations in Africa.

When planning your trip, it is important to consider the Okavango Delta’s seasonal nature. The Okavango Delta has two distinct seasons, namely the dry winter season (April – October) and wet summer season (October – March). Each Delta season offers a unique experience in terms of wildlife, birdlife, vegetation, and safari adventures and experiences.

As most people (both local and international) travel to this unique pulsing wetland at the heart of Botswana for its pristine wildlife, April – October (dry season) is considered the best time to visit the Okavango Delta.

#5 Jack’s Camp

Located in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in the heart of Botswana’s Kalahari Desert, Jack’s Camp is an oasis of comfort, style, lavish luxury, and tranquility. This sparkling diamond in the Kalahari is a legend with a history stretching back to the 1940s. Surrounded by magnificent scenery and exceptional desert landscapes, the camp features unparalleled wilderness surroundings and an unbeatable setting. As Jack’s Camp is located in a remote and pristine wilderness area, it offers a truly authentic and unforgettable African safari experience.

This top luxury safari lodge in Botswana offers guests the unique opportunity to explore and experience the distinctive, vast, and varied ecosystem of the renowned Makgadikgadi Pans as well as provides travelers, guests, and wildlife enthusiasts the ideal base from which to discover the extensive scenic landscapes and surroundings which is incredibly rich in wildlife.

Jack’s Camp boasts nine luxurious safari tents, seven twins and two doubles each measuring up to 270 square metres in size. Each tent includes a beautiful ensuite bathroom, featuring both an indoor and outdoor shower, private plunge pool, as well as a private veranda overlooking the sensational surrounding wilderness and roaming wildlife. The tents are decorated in a traditional safari style, with elegant furnishings and antique artifacts that reflect the history and culture of the area.

Beyond its top luxury lodge status, Jack’s Camp is widely known and celebrated for its spectacular wildlife sightings and up-close encounters. Ideally situated to explore and discover the abundance of magnificent wildlife and incredible diversity of the surrounding landscapes, guests can look forward to spotting year-round desert wildlife including oryx, brown hyena, and the famed Kalahari lion. Not to mention the array of nocturnal animals which can be spotted while embarking on a thrilling night game drive – some of which include aardvark, honey badger, porcupine, and bat eared foxes. Guest should be sure not to miss the opportunity to get up close with a group of habituated meerkats and enjoy the once in a lifetime opportunity to view the annual zebra and wildebeest great migration – One of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth!

At Jack’s Camp, guests are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to bucket-list worthy safari experiences, adventures, and activities. With a wide variety of extraordinary activities on offer, guests can look forward to quad biking to Kubu Island, sleeping out under the stars amongst giant boulders and ancient baobabs, spotting a wide selection of wildlife on a horse-riding safari or a desert game drive, discovering the ancient secrets of the landscape on a walking tour with the local Zu/’Hoasi Bushmen of the Kalahari, going on exhilarating open 4×4 safari / game drives, exciting guided walking safaris and bush walks led by experienced, passionate, and highly knowledgeable guides, as well as once-in-a-lifetime visits to the nearby salt pans. Plus, don’t miss a visit to Chapman’s Baobab, the third largest tree in Africa!

All-year-round Activities:

• A maximum of three safari vehicles are allowed at any one sighting, avoiding overcrowding and making for a top-notch safari experience.
• The opportunity to spot the elusive honey badger on a night game drive.
• Don’t miss the Skybeds experience, where guests can spend a night sleeping under the African night sky on a bed atop a multi-level timber platform.

In addition to its exceptional wildlife experiences, Jacks Camp is known for its excellent service and luxurious amenities and features. The camp features a swimming pool, a library, a bar, and a museum that showcases the natural and cultural history of the area.

What Sets Jack’s Camps Apart:

• Jack’s Camp offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience with a maximum of 20 guests.
• The camp offers a personalized and tailor-made experience, with expert guides and hosts who will cater to the guest’s individual needs and interests.
• Jack’s Camp offers a sustainable and responsible tourism approach, with a focus on conservation and community empowerment.

Top Reasons Why Guests Should Go to Jack’s Camp:

• Jack’s Camp offers a unique and authentic African safari experience, with a focus on the rich history, culture, and wildlife of the region.
• Jack’s Camp is located in a remote and pristine wilderness area, offering a peaceful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
• The camp offers a sustainable and responsible tourism approach, allowing guests to contribute to conservation and community empowerment while enjoying a luxury safari experience.

Overall, Jacks Camp is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and diversity of Botswana’s wildlife and landscapes, while enjoying the comforts of a world-class safari camp.

#6 Selinda Camp

Selinda Camp is a luxury safari camp situated in the remote Selinda Reserve in northern Botswana, on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta. Offering guests an authentic African safari experience, this top Botswana lodge deserves to be on every traveler’s African travel bucket-list. The reserve covers an area of over 130,000 acres and is situated between the acclaimed Okavango Delta and the renowned Chobe National Park – making it a highly sought-after destination.

Selinda Camp offers a unique and intimate safari experience, with only nine spacious and stylish tented suites that are elevated on wooden platforms, each with its own private veranda overlooking the stunning floodplains of the Selinda Spillway. The tents are beautifully furnished with elegant furniture, comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, a fabulous lounge area with a cozy fireplace, and thoughtful touches that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The camp also has a separate family tent that can accommodate up to four guests.

Guests at Selinda Camp can enjoy a wide range of extraordinary safari activities and experiences that allow them to explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the Selinda Reserve, including:

• Game drives: Guests can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in open 4×4 vehicles with experienced guides who have an in-depth knowledge of the area.
• Walking safaris: Guests can explore the reserve on foot with an expert guide, learning about the plants and animals of the area.
• Boat safaris / Mokora safaris: Guests can take a scenic boat trip along the Selinda Spillway on a traditional Mokoro boat-based water safari, where they can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
• Birdwatching: The reserve is home to over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
• Conservation activities: Guests can participate in conservation activities such as anti-poaching patrols, camera trap surveys, and animal tracking.
• Catch-and-release fishing for tigerfish and bream

The reserve is home to a vast and wonderful diversity of wildlife, including cheetahs, a variety of antelope, an array of remarkable and rare / endangered wildlife species such as the beloved African wild dog, and of course the iconic African Big5 – lion, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, and elephants – just to mention a few.

Beyond Selinda Camp’s fantastic safari experiences and abundance of wildlife, the camp offers a range of amenities and features to ensure that guests have a comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable stay. Some of these include a bar, a dining area, a library, and even a firepit. That’s not all. Selinda Camp is known for its excellent cuisine, with meals prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also choose to sit back, relax, and unwind by the camp’s swimming pool or in the comfortable lounge area after an exhilarating day of thrilling safari-filled adventures, outings, and activities.

Top reasons to visit Selinda Camp:

• Exceptional wildlife sightings: The Selinda Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, elephants, and more.
• Stunning landscapes: The Selinda Reserve offers a diverse range of landscapes, from open savannah to riverine forests, making it a beautiful and fascinating place to explore.
• Luxury accommodation: Selinda Camp offers luxurious and spacious tented rooms with all the amenities guests need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
• Sustainability: Selinda Camp is committed to conservation and sustainability, ensuring that guests can enjoy a memorable safari experience while also contributing to the preservation of the environment.
• Authentic African experience: Selinda Camp offers an authentic African safari experience, with expert guides, traditional campfires, and the chance to explore the African wilderness up close and personal.

In conclusion, Selinda Camp is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable and exclusive African safari experience in the heart of Botswana’s pristine wilderness. With its exceptional wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, luxury accommodation, commitment to sustainability, and authentic African experience, it’s no wonder why Selinda Camp is a favorite among safari enthusiasts.

#7 Xugana Island Lodge

Xugana Island Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located on a private island in the heart of the Okavango Delta of Botswana. The lodge offers an exclusive and tranquil retreat for visitors and travelers seeking a unique African safari experience that’s unlike anything they’ve encountered before.

Accommodation & Amenities:

• 8 thatched-roof chalets with en-suite bathrooms and indoor and outdoor showers
• The chalets are spacious and elegantly decorated paired with comfortable furnishings
• Private viewing decks overlooking the Okavango Delta and the Xugana Lagoon
• A swimming pool with sun loungers and a bar
• A lounge and dining area with a fireplace
• A curio shop selling African arts and crafts
•  A bar and a restaurant serving gourmet meals featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi in the main lodge area
• A private island location in the heart of the Okavango Delta
• Accessible only by boat
• A tranquil setting surrounded by water, reeds, and wildlife
• A high level of personalized service from friendly and knowledgeable staff
• A commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in the Okavango Delta

Safari Activities, Experiences & Adventures:

The Okavango Delta is known for its rich wildlife, including the renowned African Big5 where guests can enjoy up-close sightings and encounters of some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife including but not limited to elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, hippos, various antelope, and other amazing wildlife and several birdlife species.

Here are some of the top African safari experiences and adventures guests can look forward to when visiting the bucket-list worthy Botswana travel destination that is Xugana Island Lodge:

• Morning and afternoon game drives in open 4×4 vehicles. The lodge offers expert guides who are exceptionally knowledgeable about all wildlife, birdlife, as well as the local flora and fauna, and can take visitors on unforgettable safaris.
• Guided bush walks to discover the Delta’s flora and fauna.
• Traditional Mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions through the waterways and channels of the Delta.
• Motorized boat cruises to explore the Delta’s lagoons and islands.
• Fishing for bream and tigerfish (catch and release).
• Birdwatching, with over 450 species of birds found in the Delta.
• Stargazing, with the lodge offering a telescope for guests to use.

Top Reasons to Visit Xugana Island Lodge:

• Experience the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
• Stay in a luxurious safari lodge on a private island, surrounded by water and wildlife.
• Enjoy personalized service from friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are committed to making your stay comfortable and memorable.
• Explore the Delta’s diverse habitats and wildlife through a variety of safari activities and experiences, including game drives, bush walks, mokoro excursions, and boat cruises.
• Learn about sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in the Okavango Delta, and contribute to these efforts by staying at Xugana Island Lodge.

Overall, Xugana Island Lodge is a great option for visitors looking for a luxurious and unique safari experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

#8 Sable Alley

Step into the land of yawning hippos, overhanging trees, and the tranquil sounds of nature on repeat. Located in one of Botswana’s best kept wilderness secrets, Khwai Private Reserve, Sable Alley is an exclusive luxury lodge set amid the game-rich floodplains of the vast Okavango Delta.

Set on the banks of a lush lagoon, connected to both the Sable Alley and Khwai rivers, Sable Alley is a thriving hub of wildlife activity made up of resident hippos, elephant, buffalo, and large herds of plains game. Combined with being mere metres away from the Okavango Delta’s renowned Moremi Game Reserve, it not only offers guests true away-from-it-all indulgence, but all the wildlife wonders of northern Botswana.

Sable Alley’s modern-yet-earthy Tents are nestled between trees and thick vegetation. Each luxury Tent, including their Family Tents, are raised off the ground and boasts unobstructed views of the wildlife-dotted lagoon and beyond. Showcasing an Afro-chic design, every suite features the best in exclusivity and luxury with all-around lavish features and a private viewing deck, perfect for enjoying African sunset sundowners and up-close game viewing. Further complimented by a sun deck, swimming pool, relaxation lounge areas, a bar, and viewing decks, what more could you possibly ask for.

The game viewing in and around Sable Alley is truly unmatched, and you’ll find lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and a vast diversity of wildlife and birdlife all in close proximity. From thrilling day and evening game drives, once-in-a-lifetime mokoro (traditional canoe) water excursions, game walks, viewing hides, and so much more – Sable Alley offers the ultimate African escape.

#9 Meno a Kwena

Perched on a rocky clifftop above the Boteti River, overlooking the magnificent Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Meno a Kwena Tented Camp is one of Botswana’s most exclusive hidden gems. Ideally situated to explore Botswana’s vast and virtually untouched Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans, the Nxai Pans National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Meno a Kwena offers guests an unparalleled African safari and wildlife experience that will exceed all expectations.

Boasting 10 luxury en-suite tents, Meno a Kwena Tented Camp provides true away-from-it-all indulgence in the unspoiled African wilderness. Scattered amongst vegetation and thorny branches, each tent is the epitome of exclusivity and 5-star luxury.

Situated on a 100-foot-high clifftop with a private veranda overlooking the nearby Boteti River, a popular drinking spot for various wildlife, especially the majestic elephant, a member of Africa’s Big 5, guests get to experience the true meaning of an ‘armchair safari’ from the comfort of their tent. Additional Meno camp features include various look-out points, viewing tents and a natural rock plunge pool which provides a welcome respite in between safari adventures.

Guests at Meno a Kwena are invited to explore their surrounds on exceptional 4×4 game drives, thrilling early morning Bushman-guided nature walks, sunset floating hide experiences, and tranquil boat safaris along the river at dusk to view surrounding wildlife before darkness falls.

Known for its impressive concentration and remarkable diversity of wildlife, unmatched safari experiences, and pristine surroundings, Meno a Kwena Tented Camp is one of the top year-round African safari destinations.

#10 Chiefs Camp

Chiefs Camp is a luxury safari lodge located in the Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana. The Moremi Game Reserve is situated in the Okavango Delta, which is known for its incredible diversity of wildlife, beautiful scenery, vast unspoiled freshwater wetlands, varied landscapes, bucket-list worthy African safari experiences, and SO much more.

The camp features 12 luxury tents, each with a private deck overlooking the floodplains of the Okavango Delta. The tents are elegantly furnished with a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, and a lounge area. Guests can also look forward to taking advantage of an amazing array of luxury features and amenities, including a fabulous swimming pool, a lounge area, a bar, a library, and a lavish spa, perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and re-charging.

One of the best things about Chiefs Camp in Botswana is its unbeatable location – The lodge is located in a prime location for viewing a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many more. How unbelievable lucky are you?!

In addition to its prime location of top safari lodge status, Chiefs Camp offers guest a wide variety of safari activities, experiences, and adventures to choose from – each as exciting and unforgettable as the next. From exciting 4×4 game drives and safaris led by expert and passionate guides, guided bush walks where you can truly immerse yourself in the unique African wilderness experience, traditional Mokoro safaris / rides (traditional dugout canoes) where you get to experience your surroundings from a whole new perspective as well as spot rare and remarkable wildlife and birdlife you wouldn’t otherwise have, and enthralling bird-watching expeditions for all the keen birders, to helicopter flights over the Okavango Delta. Guests can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, and buffalo, all from a bird’s eye view.

Chiefs Camp offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of exploring the Okavango Delta and its wildlife in luxury and comfort. The camp’s expert guides and trackers ensure that guests have an unforgettable safari experience.

Top reasons why guests should go to Chiefs Camp:

• The camp offers a luxurious and comfortable stay, with spacious tents and excellent amenities.
• The Okavango Delta is a unique and breathtaking destination, with an abundance of wildlife and stunning landscapes.
• The camp’s expert guides and trackers provide a personalized and informative safari experience.
• The camp’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism ensures that guests can enjoy their safari adventure with minimal impact on the environment.

Overall, Chiefs Camp is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxurious and authentic safari experience in Botswana’s beautiful Moremi Game Reserve.

Contact Secret Africa

+27 21 204 6073

Email: [email protected]

Address: Workshop17, 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8005

Important Pages

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Newsletter Sign Up

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Cookie and Privacy Settings

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, you cannot refuse them without impacting how our site functions. You can block or delete them by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website.

These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.

If you do not want that we track your visist to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here: Click to enable/disable Google Analytics tracking.

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings: Click to enable/disable Google Webfonts.

Google Map Settings: Click to enable/disable Google Maps.

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds: Click to enable/disable video embeds.

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

See More Stories Like This

• Indian Ocean Islands
• Cape Winelands
• Garden Route
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Gorilla Trekking
• Great Migration
• Family Travel
• Accommodation
• Traveller’s tales
• The Bucket List
• Postcards From Africa
• Cape Town Restaurant Guide
• Cape Winelands Restaurant Guide
• Johannesburg Restaurant Guide
• Special Features
• Our Home Safari
• Africa’s Photographer of the Year
• Photography & Videos
• Let’s start planning

Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana in 2023

Accommodation , Botswana

0    comments

From world-class architecture and design to expert safari guides and service, we've selected our top 10 luxury safari lodges in  Botswana . They made our list not only because of the Swarovski safari binoculars or the foie gras but for the entire experience, from start to finish. Our best-of list includes anything from mobile camps to royal villas and everything in between. So, no matter your safari style and in no particular order, here's our handpicked list of the top luxury safari lodges in Botswana. 

Explore Botswana's top luxury safari lodges with us, Image Credit: Chief's Camp

1. Little Vumbura

Little Vumbura  is  Vumbura Plains Camp 's sibling camp, both located deep in the watery wilderness of the  Okavango Delta 's  northern permanent channels. With just six suites, Little Vumbura is one of Botswana's smallest luxury safari lodges, which means you can expect a personalised, exclusive safari experience.

Whether it's your honeymoon, a family safari or a group celebration, this piece of Botswana heaven will deliver. Furthermore, lavish living aside, your setting on a private island offers year-round water and land safari activities for a classic Okavango Delta experience no matter what time of year you visit.

Surrounded by untouched nature, Image Credit: Little Vumbura

Who’s it for?

Little Vumbura is ideal if you want the complete luxury Delta experience – on land, water and in the air. It's also perfect for romantic pampering and small group celebrations.

• Game drives, night drives, walking safaris, boating safaris, mokoro excursions and fishing
• Exceptionally good game viewing thanks to the varied habitats surrounding you
• Great food and warm, friendly service on a private island in the Okavango Delta
• Take it to the sky with hot air balloon rides and helicopter flights

2. Jao Camp

Jao Camp  is one of the more dramatic luxury safari lodges in Botswana. Its bold and exciting design complements the extraordinary wildlife extravaganza and its glorious island setting.

Furthermore, its location in a huge private concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta guarantees exclusive access to the pristine wilderness and sensational wildlife sightings. Offering land, water and airborne safari activities, Jao Camp is the ultimate full-featured luxury Delta experience.

Discover the area in a traditional mokoro, Image Credit: Jao Camp

With all the privacy and luxury your heart could desire, Jao Camp is an excellent choice for honeymooners and for celebrating romantic milestones. The game viewing activities and the varied habitats also make it a safari destination dressed to impress. Therefore, when it comes to luxury meets adventure, Jao Camp offers the best of both.

• Sophisticated and innovative luxury safari lodge – think double-volume exhibition space around a fully reconstructed giraffe skeleton and a variety of construction materials and textures (including living trees)
• Ultimate privacy, from your personal safari guide to private plunge pool as well as your own campfire pit and outdoor shower
• Luxury amenities include a health spa, gym, library, gallery, museum, swimming pool, air conditioning, salas and hammocks
• Excellent game viewing in a private concession straddling the transition between Kalahari woodlands and the Okavango Delta's waterways

3. Sanctuary Chief's Camp

Sanctuary Chief's Camp  is renowned for its exceptional wildlife and is one of the most reliable places to see lions, leopards, African wild dogs, elephants, rhinos, buffalo… in other words, the Big 5 and its entire supporting cast. And that's not to mention the prolific and varied birdlife!

With a sublime setting beneath ancient trees on a Delta island and offering the utmost luxury, Chief's Camp is indeed a refined and exhilarating experience. Fit for royalty, this is undoubtedly one of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana.

Relax and enjoy the views of the Okavango Delta, Image Credit: Chief's Camp

Chief's Camp is a high-end safari lodge offering an exciting game-viewing safari experience. It's ideal for families, couples, honeymooners, and small group milestone celebrations.

• A luxury safari lodge with aircon, plunge pools and private dining
• Go for the Kent suite for the full monty of luxury, privacy and personal service
• Famous game-viewing area with plains and channels affording the full range of Delta safari activities
• Renowned for service that goes above and beyond, excellent guides and extensive features, including family-oriented activities, a health spa and even a gym

4. Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

With palatial tented suites and a five-star amenities list,  Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp  blurs the line between an authentic tented safari camp and an upmarket, state-of-the-art hotel. The camp is in its own wildlife concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve. Therefore, you can expect exclusive access, including night drives, walking safaris, off-road traversing and a whole lot of pristine wilderness all to yourself. Plus, your family will love it too because Nxabega is a family-focused safari lodge welcoming and catering to children of all ages.

Vying for the top spot as one of Botswana's most luxurious safari lodges, andBeyond's Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp offers incredible game viewing, pitch-perfect hospitality and luxury amenities.

Perfect for a romantic getaway, Image Credit: Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Families, couples and small groups will all appreciate the personal service and attention to detail. Furthermore, serious wildlife and birding enthusiasts will enjoy the game-rich variety of habitats and the exceptional safari guides.

• All-round luxury safari with excellent game viewing and a reputation for guiding excellence 
• Family-focused, welcoming children of all ages with special activities and facilities
• Wellness spa, interactive coffee bar, complimentary binoculars and Wi-Fi
• A birder's paradise with over 400 species, including the elusive Pel's fishing owl

5. Chobe Under Canvas

From ultra-luxury safari lodges to mobile camps, andBeyond is renowned for creating exciting, authentic safaris that go over and beyond your expectations (pun intended!).  Chobe Under Canvas  is one such mobile safari camp, situated right by the river deep inside Botswana's  Chobe National Park .

This might be considered a camp, but don't let that fool you. Your every need is taken care of, from the expected essential comforts include full-size walk-in tents (just five for an intimate safari experience), very comfortable beds with luxury linen, hot-bucket showers and flushing en-suite toilets. Food is expertly prepared over an open fire and served in a lantern-lit al fresco mess tent. Moreover, the camp is entirely solar-powered, which adds to the authentic African adventure atmosphere. 

Sunset cruise on the Chobe River, Image Credit: andBeyond

This mobile camp – relocated every five days – is ideal for experienced safari-goers looking for an immersive, adventurous bush experience. It's also a great add-on option when staying at their classic luxury safari lodge. Chobe Under Canvas is an adventure in itself, but then you also get to go out on game drives and river safaris.

• One of the very few safari accommodations inside Chobe National Park for exclusive early and late game drives
• Authentic safari where you can feel the bush beneath your feet, hear the crickets at your doorstep and the lions' roars that fill the night
• Excellent big game safaris with elephant, buffalo, crocodile and hippo sightings along with lion, leopard, hyena and plains game galore
• You can enjoy a specialist photographic boat safari on the Chobe River

6. Camp Moremi

Camp Moremi  is an effortlessly charming safari lodge and one of our favourite luxury safari lodges in Botswana. A classic safari lodge with thatched roofing, it has an elevated deck flooring and open sides that spill out into the Okavango Delta wilderness. And not to mention that the suites are gloriously enormous!

It's found inside the Moremi Game Reserve on the permanent Xakanaxa Lagoon (pronounced "Kakanaka"), surrounded by floodplains and woodlands of varying habitats. As a result, you can expect incredible safaris! On land and water, all year round, the game viewing, birding and general beauty of this magical place are all simply sensational. 

Relax in the comfort of your own luxury tent, Image Credit: Camp Moremi

Camp Moremi is an unassuming luxury safari lodge that places your safari experience front and centre. Ideal for couples, families, groups, birders and avid wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

• Warm and intimate safari camp with communal dining and friendly staff
• Land and water safaris all year round in a wildlife-dense area of the Okavango Delta
• Excellent game viewing with diverse habitats in the Moremi Game Reserve
• Great for families and children over six years old can join the activities with their parents

7. Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge  is one of our favourite luxury safari lodges in Botswana for its many unique features. First off, this is the only permanent safari lodge inside Chobe National Park. Therefore, this means earlier and later access than if you were to stay outside the national park. The safari lodge is total luxury with all mod-cons, including air conditioning in lavish, north African-themed suites and a variety of dining and sundowner settings along its extensive river-facing decks and boardwalks.

Another noteworthy feature of Chobe Game Lodge is its progressive environmental and social policies. Famous for its all-female guiding crew and electric safari vehicles and boats, the lodge also produces much of its own electricity and recycles its wastewater. So, with a clean conscience, you can enjoy exhilarating game drives and river safaris. And this area will certainly deliver on sightings as it's rife with elephants, buffalos, hippos, crocodiles, lions, African wild dogs and the general game densities that rightly make Chobe one of the most famous national parks in Africa.

Relax in your private plunge pool while watching Botswana's wildlife, Image Credit: Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge is great for families with so much on offer for children of all ages. It's also great for couples wanting some anonymity and downtime to contrast the intimacy and personal attention of the smaller, exclusive safari lodges in your itinerary. Enjoy a spa treatment and a romantic al fresco dinner for two after a day of game drives and river cruises while the children run riot in the young explorers club.

• The only permanent safari lodge inside Chobe National Park, and it's on the Chobe River, so you can't be better placed for a best-of-Chobe experience.
• A progressive safari lodge with an all-female guiding team using electric vehicles and boats
• Great for families with land and water activities for all ages
• Elephants, elephants and more elephants!

8. Little Machaba

As far as luxury safari lodges in Botswana go,  Little Machaba  casts a modest, hyper-intimate, ultra-light footprint. Four classic tented suites – enormous by any standards – comprised of two doubles and two family tents sleep a maximum of 12 guests. But that's the only part where "Little" applies. Every other aspect of this delightful safari camp is larger than life.

Deep in the Okavango Delta and surrounded by the 180,000-hectare Khwai Community Concession, Little Machaba is a veritable wildlife festival. As a result, it makes sense that the safari guides and game-viewing activities are the headline act. Elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and African wild dogs lead an all-star cast of varied Delta wildlife and birdlife that will have you shouting "Bravo! Encore!" after day one.

Get close to Botswana's amazing wildlife, Image Credit: Machaba Camp

With such a light footprint, Little Machaba retains the adventurous spirit of an authentic luxury safari. It's ideal for couples, families and small groups wanting to connect with nature and Africa's incredible wildlife.

• Intimate, personalised and very special experience
• Eco-camp for an authentic safari and a light footprint
• Full-featured activity list with exceptional game viewing in the Khwai Concession
• Cultural village visits (usually the lodges are too remote), birding, game drives, night drives, and seasonal mokoro water tours on offer

9. Linyanti Bush Camp

If game viewing were star-rated,  Linyanti Bush Camp  would be a six-star behemoth. As it happens, this small, intimate safari camp packs just enough luxury and first-class service to make it one of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana. The rest is dedicated to a first-class safari experience.

The Linyanti Marshes are the only permanent water source inside a private concession in the remote northwest of Chobe National Park. As a result, this is a best of all-worlds position to experience vast herds of elephants and buffalos as well as a variety of plains game, including lions, leopards, African wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles and rare antelopes. The birdlife is astounding, and with the full range of safari activities, your wilderness experience at Linyanti Bush Camp will be nothing short of sensational.

Unwind and enjoy the view from your outdoor bath, Image Credit: Linyanti Bush Camp

With its purposefully low environmental and social impact, Linyanti Bush Camp presents an authentic, complete safari experience suited to adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. Families are well-catered for, and the intimacy of this camp lends itself to small group celebrations.

• A full range of safari activities, including guided walking, game drives, night drives, boating and helicopter excursions (seasonal)
• The Linyanti Wetlands, between Chobe and the Okavango Delta, is an exceptional wildlife area – even by Botswana's standards
• Small and intimate safari camp with an emphasis on personalised safari experiences
• Family-friendly and small enough to book the whole camp for a wow-inducing celebration

10. Khwai Leadwood

Khwai Leadwood  is a finely tuned mix of adventure and refinement. On the edge of the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta, the Khwai Community Concession sees the great game viewing of its neighbouring national park. It then raises the bar with additional safari activities and features.

One of the very few safari lodges in Botswana welcoming children of all ages, Khwai Leadwood offers walking safaris, day and night game drives, birding, and mokoro trips during high-water peak season. The wildlife in this area is phenomenal, with reliable sightings of elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, hyenas, rare antelopes and the full complement of plains game and nocturnal predators.

A great place for romance and wildlife sightings, Image Credit: Khwai Leadwood Lodge

Khwai Leadwood is an excellent all-around luxury safari lodge within a stunning setting. Welcoming children of all ages and with dedicated safari activities for them, this is the perfect family safari camp when visiting Botswana. Furthermore, the exceptional game viewing and birding also make Khwai Leadwood a great option for first-time safari goers wanting guaranteed sightings of, well, everything.

• Great safari camp for the whole family with a scenic setting overlooking the Khwai River
• Full range of safari activities, including bush walks, night drives, off-road traversing, boating and helicopter flights (seasonal)
• Exceptional service, food and generous tented suites
• Excellent first-time safari option with village visits and cultural interaction at this community-run concession and reliable sightings of big game

Ready to Book Your Luxury Botswana Safari?

Botswana is well-known for its high-end luxury safari lodges. Many are lavish five-star oases of unabashed comfort and refinement, while others, maintaining luxury credentials, focus their attention on the wilderness experience.

Whichever style on the luxury safari lodge spectrum you favour, our Travel Experts provide the latest, first-hand advice, planning and booking services.  Contact us  to start planning your tailor-made Botswana safari with the World's Leading Safari Company.

Featured Image: Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Plan your African Safari today

Opens our enquiry form

Based on 3000+ reviews

You May Also Like

Top accommodations for gorilla trekking in africa, experiencing the big 5 from land, water and sky, our favourite places to stay in south luangwa national park.

About the author 

Born in Zimbabwe and, having bluffed his way through a Journalism Degree at Rhodes, Ian turned his reluctantly nomadic life into a successful career as a travel writer. With stints in Harare, Joburg, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Port Shepstone and Greyton, he has travelled the length and breadth of southern Africa. Now living in Knysna, Ian combines his innate tendency to write for a living with a deep-rooted love of Africa’s wilderness and a keen interest in the hospitality trade.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Privacy Overview

• You are here:

Top 10 Best Botswana Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

When it comes to picking the best Botswana safari camps, there is a lot of choice. Botswana is known for its luxury boutique camps and lodges. The best manage to deliver excellent service and provide full amenities while being environmentally responsible . From the Okavango Delta to the unearthly Makgadikgadi Pans, here are some of the most popular, top-rated Botswana safari camps.

1. Zarafa, Okavango Delta

Zarafa is undoubtedly one of the best Botswana safari camps, with just four luxury tents located in the Selinda Concession of the Okavango Delta. It is owned by nature documentary filmmakers and conservationists, Dereck and Beverly Joubert. One of the perks at Zarafa is that they loan out state-of-the-art camera equipment to guests, affording them the best possible photography during their stay.

2. Jack’s Camp, Makgadikgadi Pans

In the Makgadikgadi Pans of Botswana – vast salt flats, home to a surprising amount of wildlife – Jack’s Camp has lots of character. Designed in the style of a 1940s safari camp, it was founded by one of Africa’s most famous guides, Ralph Bousfield. The camp allows guests to explore the pans on foot with the bushmen, on quad bikes, or, of course, in a game drive vehicle. Watching the sunset over the barren salt flats and stargazing when all the light has faded are two experiences not to be missed.

Jack’s Camp Tours

3. Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, Okavango Delta

One for those who need their creature comforts and struggle with the heat, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge in the Okavango Delta is one of the few camps in Botswana to have air-conditioning. For many people, this is a deal-maker! The 12-tent luxury lodge is also in a great spot for photographic and water-based safaris. A private helicopter trip to Fallen Fig Island is a highlight.

4. Meno a Kwena, Makgadikgadi Pans

Allegedly Prince Harry’s favourite Botswana camp, Meno a Kwena is perched above the Boteti River on the border of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. From here you can go on boat cruises down the river, take walks with the bushmen, and head off on day-trips into the park. As Meno is just 90 minutes’ drive from Maun, it’s an ideal place to spend a day or two relaxing at the start or end of a Botswana safari.

Meno a Kwena Tours

5. Duba Plains Camp, Duba Plains

The lions of Duba Plains are famous buffalo hunters and this lodge-like Zarafa, also owned by the Jouberts’ company, Great Plains Conservation – is one of the best places to see them in action. These lions are documented in National Geographic’s Relentless Enemies, which is a must-watch movie before your visit. The area is also rich in birdlife. Overlooking the floodplain, the camp has just five, luxuriously appointed tents, each with private plunge pools.

6. Mombo Camp, Okavango Delta

Arguably the most famous – and in demand – of the best Botswana safari camps, Mombo is known for the huge amount of wildlife that surrounds it. Known as the ‘place of plenty’, lions and leopards are commonly sighted, alongside rare creatures such as the Pel’s fishing owl. Though very luxurious, the camp is also eco-friendly; among other eco-initiatives, it is 100% solar-powered.

7. Uncharted Africa Mobile Camp, Okavango Delta

One of the best ways to explore the delta is in a mobile camp, moving locations during the day and setting up camp in a new spot each night. This is a traditional, adventurous style of safari. However, with a camp like Uncharted’s, you needn’t forego all the luxury. These tents have Persian rugs, campaign-style furnishings and proper beds. The guiding is also excellent.

8. Abu Camp, Okavango Delta

Abu Camp’s elephants are the camp’s main draw. These ellies are habituated and you can join them for a walk through the bush, meet each member of the herd and learn all about their habits and characters. Abu Camp has five tents and overlooks a lagoon in a beautiful Okavango Delta hardwood forest. Alongside the elephant interactions, the camp offers game drives and mokoro trips through the delta.

9. Chobe Game Lodge, Chobe NP

Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent lodge in Chobe National Park , one of the best places to see big herds of elephants in the wild. Though a larger lodge with 47 rooms, it’s a great Chobe base. It is known for having electric game vehicles and boats, which are not just environmentally friendly, but also less alarming for animals. Chobe Game Lodge is also recognised for having the first all-female guiding team in Botswana.

Chobe Game Lodge Tours

10. Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp, Okavango Delta

Occupying its own island and overlooking a lagoon deep in the Okavango Delta, Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp belongs to the outstanding &Beyond portfolio of camps. You won’t even need to leave camp to experience wildlife, with elephants often wandering past and lions roaring nearby in the night. The tents themselves are large and luxurious, and each comes with a private plunge pool.

Xaranna Camp Tours

Want To Visit Botswana?

Click on the button below to compare Botswana safaris offered by top rated tour operators.

448 Botswana Safaris

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 106,997 reviews and 222 destination guides. More About Us

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

Botswana Safaris

7-Day Chobe NP, Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls Luxury

$4,995 to $7,810 pp (USD)

4-Day Mid-Range Victoria Falls and Chobe Safari Combo

$1,170 to $1,290 pp (USD)

3-Day Thrilling Vacation in Chobe National Park

$1,100 to $1,320 pp (USD)

Botswana Safaris by Type

• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris

Okavango Delta

• 2-Day Safaris
• 9-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit Botswana

Parks & reserves botswana.

Chobe National Park

Moremi Game Reserve

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Photo gallery botswana.

Map of Botswana

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to botswana.

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe Riverfront (Chobe NP) , Okavango Delta, Maun (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.8 /5  –  154 Reviews

Zimbabwe & Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe NP, Victoria Falls Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours

4.9 /5  –  1341 Reviews

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Kasane (End)

Kubwa Five Safaris

5.0 /5  –  129 Reviews

15 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana:(2024)

Botswana luxury safari.

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure in the heart of Africa with a luxurious safari in Botswana . This awe-inspiring country boasts some of the most untouched and diverse ecosystems in the world, from the lush Okavango Delta to the striking Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. With its stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife encounters, Botswana has become the ultimate destination for elite safaris.

See also: 15 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

But what truly sets Botswana apart is its unwavering commitment to conservation and eco-tourism. This dedication shines through in the top-tier luxury lodges available all across the country, each one designed to provide an unforgettable experience while minimizing any harm to the environment. Join us on this extraordinary journey and witness Botswana's dedication to preserving its natural beauty.

See Botswana's 4 Must-Visit National Parks

Today we're diving deep into Botswana's top-notch safari lodges. Get ready for some serious luxury, unforgettable thrills with wildlife, and eco-friendly vibes that'll make you feel good about your adventure. Let's explore together and discover the perfect destination for your Botswana trip of a lifetime.

Which Month is Best for Botswana Safari?

May through september is the best time for a safari in botswana (dry season). these months offer optimal wildlife viewing experiences, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and game drives..

Additionally, the dry season provides excellent opportunities to witness large gatherings of animals around the remaining water sources, increasing your chances of unforgettable wildlife encounters. So, if you're planning a Botswana safari adventure, consider the months of May to September to make the most of your trip.

Can you go on Safari in Botswana all year?

Yes, you can still go on a safari in Botswana during other months of the year, although the experience may be different from the peak season of May through September. The green or wet season, which typically runs from November to April, offers its own unique set of attractions and challenges.

Botswana Green Season

In Botswana, the green season brings vibrant landscapes and a wealth of birdwatching opportunities. Witness newborn wildlife and migratory birds during this calving season. Though the weather can be unpredictable, the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is bustling with life and provides unforgettable wildlife encounters. Game drives are still a possibility but be prepared to exercise patience and sharp eyesight due to denser vegetation. Join us in experiencing the natural beauty of Botswana during the green season.

Botswana Off-Peak Months

If you're planning a safari in Botswana, consider going during the off-peak months. Not only will you get a more intimate and exclusive safari experience with fewer visitors around, but you'll also enjoy more affordable prices. It's a great value for those who want to explore Botswana on a budget. Give it a shot!

Why are Botswana Safaris so expensive?

Botswana lodges offer exclusivity. These safaris are tailored to individual needs and can include private guides, luxury lodges, and exclusive access to wildlife. Exclusivity is consequently a critical factor in making Botswana safaris so expensive.

How much does Safari cost in Botswana?

Mid-range lodgings start at just US$500 per person per night during the low season. But if you're looking for the opulent luxury, you can upgrade to high-end accommodations for about US$1500 per person per night during the peak season.

How many days do you need for a Botswana Safari?

Plan for at least 3 days. However, for the ultimate exploration of this beautiful country's diverse safari regions, you might want to set aside 10 days. From the Chobe National Park, where you'll see tons of majestic elephants, to the serene channels of the Okavango Delta, the lush fields of the Linyanti, and the dry Makgadikgadi pans, Botswana offers endless game-viewing options that will blow your mind!

Best Luxury Lodges in Botswana

15. duba plains camp.

Welcome to Duba Plains Camp, the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Botswana safari. Located in the heart of the breathtaking Okavango Delta, our 33,000-hectare private reserve offers a mesmerizing blend of palm-dotted islands, thriving flood plains, and lush woodland. It's no wonder that conservationists, explorers, and renowned National Geographic filmmakers, Dereck and Beverly Joubert, chose this as their base for filming.

Duba Plains is a luxury safari camp that seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape while evoking the classic African safari style of the 1920s. Our five bespoke suites, elevated on recycled railway sleeper decking, offer stunning views of the floodplain with a constant parade of wildlife. Each suite is complete with a lounge area and beautifully appointed en-suite facilities, including a luxurious bath, indoor and outdoor showers, double vanities, and a flush loo. Stay comfortable with ceiling fans and an eco-friendly, air-conditioning system over your bed. Relax on your private verandah, complete with a plunge pool and shaded sala.

14. Great Plains Zarafa Camp

Zarafa Camp is a luxurious and environmentally conscious safari paradise situated in Botswana's breathtaking Selinda Reserve. Here you'll experience exceptional game viewing, plush accommodations, and a commitment to sustainability that'll leave you feeling great about your stay.

Their intimate camp boasts just four spacious, opulent tented villas, ensuring a personalized experience unlike any other. Each villa features stunning views of the surrounding wildlife and landscapes from its private veranda, outdoor shower, and plunge pool. You'll enjoy vintage and contemporary furnishings that blend classic safari charm with modern amenities.

The Selinda Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and numerous antelope species. Zarafa Camp offers exceptional game viewing opportunities both on land and water. Expert guides lead game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris on the lagoon, giving guests a chance to explore the reserve's varied habitats and encounter its fascinating wildlife up close.

13. Jao Camp - Wilderness Safaris

Welcome to Jao Camp: a luxurious and eco-friendly safari haven in Botswana's Okavango Delta. Their remote island location offers the perfect balance of land- and water-based activities, providing guests with thrilling encounters with the Delta's diverse wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Their accommodations include nine gorgeous tented suites and two exclusive villas, perfect for families or small groups. Each suite features a private plunge pool, outdoor sala, and both indoor and outdoor showers, allowing our guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surrounding scenery. Their suites are exquisitely decorated with a mix of modern and traditional African design elements, which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Join us for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Delta.

12. Mombo and Little Mombo Camp

The ultimate luxury safari camp that will exceed your wildest dreams. Immerse yourself in the chic sustainability of this breathtaking destination in the Okavango Delta, renowned for its world-class game viewing. Positioned where the main Okavango River splits into its primary channels, Mombo offers unrivalled access to the best year-round game-viewing destination in Botswana. Brace yourself for exciting predator-prey interactions dominated by majestic big cats. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime at Mombo.

Wild Dogs in Botswana

If you're looking to witness the beauty of African wild dogs in their natural habitat, then Mombo and Little Mombo Camp in Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve is the place to be. Boasting a thriving and stable population of painted dogs, this region guarantees an unforgettable wildlife viewing experience. And the cherry on top? Mombo Camp's unwavering dedication towards conservation and sustainability makes it the perfect choice for anyone yearning to observe these rare predators while protecting the environment. Trust me, it's a must-visit for every nature lover out there!

Mombo vs Little Mombo

Mombo Camp has nine spacious tented suites, complete with indoor and outdoor showers and sitting rooms. For a more intimate experience, stay at Little Mombo - their smaller camp with only three ultra-luxurious tents nestled in the shade of sausage and jackalberry trees. No matter which option you choose, your stay at Mombo Camp will be a truly unforgettable adventure.

11. Duna Tau

A Luxury Linyanti Safari. Welcome to DumaTau, where adventure and nature combine for an unforgettable experience. Witness the captivating wildlife up close and personal, as this exceptional wilderness truly lives up to its name - "roar of the lion" in Setswana. But, it's the majestic elephants that truly steal the show. Marvel as these amazing creatures traverse ancient wildlife corridors, playfully spraying water at each other in Linyanti's waters, and munching on water lilies. With exclusive excursions and one-of-a-kind encounters, DumaTau is the ultimate destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Duna Tau Accommodation where the wildlife roams free and you can relax in one of our eight luxurious tented suites. Each suite is equipped with its own private plunge pool and situated on wooden walkways, allowing you to get up close and personal with nature. Inside, you'll find hand-crafted mosaic tile, acacia wood, and local textiles that reflect the essence of the Linyanti, one of Botswana's most beloved wildlife reserves.

10. Jacks Camp - Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Kalahari Desert

Jack's Camp is a one-of-a-kind luxury safari destination nestled in Botswana's stunning Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Founded by renowned explorer Jack Bousfield in the 1960s, our camp boasts vintage-inspired design, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and immersive cultural activities.

Their tent-style accommodations are spacious and lavish, featuring antique furniture, Persian rugs, and private en-suite bathrooms for the perfect balance of old-world charm and modern comfort. Relax on your private veranda and take in the serene and surreal beauty of the salt pans.

Wildlife and Cultural Experiences

Experience the Wild and Cultural Wonders of Jack's Camp: Get up close and personal with habituated meerkats, and rare brown hyenas and witness the seasonal zebra and wildebeest migration on game drives, walking safaris, and quad biking excursions. Plus, engage with the San Bushmen, and the indigenous people of the area, and learn about their ancient culture, traditions, and survival skills through guided walks and interactive storytelling sessions. Explore the diverse habitats and wildlife of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans with Jack's Camp's expert guides.

9. Kiri Camp

Experience the ultimate safari adventure at Kiri Camp - offering game drives and water activities unlike any other. Their private concession takes you to remote areas of the delta that were once inaccessible. Spot iconic wildlife from a motorboat ride during peak flood times, or glide through water lilies on a peaceful mokoro ride. Kiri's diverse and plentiful wildlife includes rare wild dogs and noteworthy lion and buffalo interactions. And with off-road and night driving, accompanied by knowledgeable armed guides, you'll truly immerse yourself in the wild. Come explore Kiri Camp and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

8. Tuludi Safari Camp -Okavango Delta

Let me tell you about Tuludi Camp - the ultimate luxury safari experience nestled in Botswana's breathtaking Okavango Delta. Located in the Khwai Private Reserve, right next to the world-renowned Moremi Game Reserve, this enchanting camp immerses you in a unique blend of floodplains, rivers, and forests.

Tuludi Camp boasts seven stunning tree-house-style tented suites, each raised on platforms to provide unbeatable views of the surrounding area. From private plunge pools to indoor and outdoor showers, these spacious suites blend modern and traditional African design elements, with a separate lounge area for your ultimate comfort. And when you're not exploring the spectacular wildlife, enjoy the camp's main area that features a comfortable lounge, dining area, and library - it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.

7. Shinde Camp

Welcome to Shinde Camp, located on the lush and palm-dotted island of Concession in Botswana's northeastern Okavango Delta. This prime location offers a unique blend of land and water activities, allowing for the ultimate wildlife experience.

Their eight classic safari tents are elegantly designed with en-suite bathrooms that combine comfort and traditional African charm. Situated on wooden platforms, the tents offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and lagoon. You can also enjoy the lounge, dining area, and bar under a multi-tiered canvas tent with breathtaking views of the Delta.

Wildlife Experiences:

The Shinde Concession is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffalo, and numerous antelope and bird species. Shinde Camp offers a variety of activities to explore this unique environment, such as game drives, walking safaris, mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, and motorboat trips. Expert guides lead these activities, providing guests with close-up encounters and fascinating insights into the region's wildlife.

6. Kwara Camp

Discover the ultimate African safari adventure at Kwara Camp - a luxurious and intimate haven nestled in the stunning Kwara Concession within the Okavango Delta of Botswana. Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystem that surrounds you, with access to both land and water activities right at your doorstep. Experience the beauty of this picturesque setting alongside a lagoon and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Their nine classic safari tents, complete with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas offer unbeatable views of the Okavango Delta. Experience true comfort and traditional charm as each tent is thoughtfully designed with wooden platforms and a harmonious blend of African décor.

5. Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

Eagle Island Lodge, is the ultimate luxurious safari lodge situated on breathtaking Xaxaba Island at the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta. Enjoy an exclusive and intimate wildlife encounter in the midst of picturesque waterways and greenery, all while indulging in top-notch accommodations that epitomize sophistication.

The Okavango Delta is a breathtaking oasis with a vibrant wildlife scene. From majestic elephants to ferocious lions, eagles and buffaloes, this place has it all. Eagle Island Lodge offers a plethora of activities to discover this unique environment, including game drives, walking safaris, mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, and captivating motorboat trips. Skilled guides lead these activities, delivering intimate encounters and intriguing insights into the region's wildlife.

4. Chobe Chilwero - Chobe National Park

Chobe Chilwero is a luxurious and elegant safari lodge on the edge of Botswana's Chobe National Park. Their prime position overlooking the Chobe River offers breathtaking views and exceptional wildlife encounters, all while indulging in top-notch accommodations.

If you're seeking a luxury safari experience in the heart of Botswana's Chobe National Park, then look no further than Chobe Chilwero. Their superior accommodations, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and dedication to preserving the environment and supporting the local community make them the perfect choice for a one-of-a-kind safari adventure.

3. Savute Safari Lodge - Chobe National Park

Savute Safari Lodge - the ultimate luxury safari getaway located in the heart of Botswana's Chobe National Park. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Africa's most diverse wildlife and indulge in their comfortable accommodations designed to make your stay unforgettable. Their commitment to sustainability and community involvement ensures that your safari adventure with us is not only unforgettable but also responsible.

Savute Safari Lodge has got world-class facilities and activities. Kick back and soak up the sun on our pool deck, take a stroll through the savannah, and indulge in some heavenly alfresco dining under the stars. Plus, our friendly staff is here to make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. So why wait? Book your adventure now!

2. Xigera Safari Lodge

Welcome to the Xigera Safari Lodge – a stunning eco-friendly paradise situated in Botswana's Okavango Delta. Located on Paradise Island within the Moremi Game Reserve, this luxurious retreat is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes teeming with diverse wildlife. Here you'll find meticulously designed accommodations, exceptional wildlife encounters, and an exclusive, intimate experience that you won't forget anytime soon.

The diverse wildlife of the Okavango Delta, includes African elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, hippos, and exotic bird species. Xigera Safari Lodge has a range of activities that will help you explore this unique environment, from thrilling game drives and walking safaris to tranquil mokoro canoe excursions and motorboat trips. Our experienced guides will take you up close and personal with the wildlife, giving you fascinating insights into this mesmerizing region.

1. Vumbura Plains

Welcome to Vumbura Plains, without a doubt one of the most luxurious and exclusive safari lodges on planet Earth. You'll find us deep within the Vumbura Concession, nestled in the northern reaches of Botswana's legendary Okavango Delta. Here, you'll experience the ultimate in wildlife encounters, along with first-class amenities and breathtaking vistas that will leave you speechless.

Vumbura Plains is divided into two separate camps, Vumbura Plains North and Vumbura Plains South, each featuring seven elegant and spacious suites. The suites are raised on wooden platforms and offer a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional African style. Each suite comes with en-suite bathrooms, private plunge pools, and large private decks, providing stunning views of the surrounding floodplains and wildlife. The main area of each camp includes a comfortable lounge, dining area, bar, and library, all offering panoramic views of the Okavango Delta.

Vumbura Plains is great for an African Family Safari

Botswana's High Standard of Safari Camps

Botswana has established a reputation for offering a high standard of safari camps, which can be attributed to several factors, including the country's commitment to sustainable tourism, a low-impact, high-value approach, and a focus on exclusivity and personalized experiences.

Commitment to sustainable tourism :

Botswana has long been a pioneer in sustainable tourism, with a focus on preserving the natural environment and wildlife. This commitment extends to the lodges, which often prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as utilizing solar power, implementing waste management systems, and minimizing their environmental footprint.

Low-impact, high-value approach:

Botswana has adopted a low-impact, high-value tourism model, which means limiting the number of visitors to specific areas and emphasizing high-quality experiences. This approach has led to the development of more intimate, smaller-scale lodges that prioritize guest satisfaction and deliver exceptional experiences.

Exclusivity of Botswana Safari Lodges:

Many of the safari lodges in Botswana are located in private concessions or on private land, which allows them to offer a more exclusive and intimate experience. This exclusivity translates to fewer guests, more personalized service, and the freedom to explore the area without the crowds found in more popular safari destinations.

Personalized experiences:

High-standard lodges in Botswana often focus on providing customized and personalized experiences for their guests. This can include tailored activities, flexible schedules, and knowledgeable guides who can cater to guests' specific interests and preferences.

Expertise and professionalism:

Botswana's safari lodges are known for their highly skilled and experienced staff, including expert guides, trackers, and hospitality professionals. This expertise ensures that guests enjoy the best possible wildlife encounters, a seamless stay, and a deep understanding of the country's natural and cultural heritage.

Luxurious accommodations and amenities:

The high standard of lodges in Botswana is also evident in the quality of their accommodations and amenities. Many lodges offer elegantly designed suites or tents with en-suite bathrooms, private plunge pools, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Additional amenities may include fine dining, spas, and swimming pools, providing guests with a comfortable and luxurious stay.

In summary, the high standard of lodges in Botswana can be attributed to the country's commitment to sustainable tourism, a low-impact, high-value approach, a focus on exclusivity and personalized experiences, and exceptional accommodations and amenities. These factors combine to create a unique and unforgettable safari experience for travellers visiting Botswana.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to Luxury Safari in Botswana, If you've been to any of these amazing lodges or others, we'd love to know your thoughts in the comments.

Cheers Craig Howes

Recent Posts

Gorilla Trekking: The Ultimate Guide

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Namibia

15 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Mauritius Vacation: A Personal Journey into Indian Ocean Paradise

• Dec 23, 2023

Wildlife of Botswana: A Safari Enthusiast's Bucketlist (Animals in Botswna)

• Dec 21, 2023

Discovering the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls: A Spectacular Natural Wonder

Best All-inclusive African Safari Vacations

• Dec 2, 2023

Malawi Vacation: The Ultimate Guide to Africa's Hidden Paradise

• Nov 10, 2023

Mpala Jena: The luxury Victoria Falls safari camp.

• Sep 22, 2023

• Best of Africa & Top 10
• 10 Best Luxury Safari Camps and Lodges in Botswana

Botswana's Ten Finest Luxury Safari Camps

The grandest luxury in Africa is not found in eccentric buildings claiming to be the newest marvel of contemporary architecture but in the age-old habitats that have been home to life for millennia. This is true of Botswana's lodges and safari camps more than any other country, where the desert meets oases, and the seasonal herds migrate in the wilderness's cyclical seasons.

Mombo Camp, located on a large stretch of land in the heart of the Okavango Delta known as Chief's Island, is a jewel of the swamps. The unimpeded views peering out from the trees that shelter the camp is breathtaking, with wooden decks and a fire-pit for guests to enjoy the evenings with delicious food and great company.

Kings Pool Camp

Kings Pool Camp sits at the edge of the Okavango Delta's water, its triangular thatched roofs and firelight creating a warm and cozy atmosphere under the stars. The camp's nine private units face the water, offering exquisite views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Like its peers, Abu Camp offers guests all the views and promise of close interactions with nature's most majestic beasts, only at a somewhat more intimate level. Here, guests can look at the Delta from the back of an elephant, with professional rangers guiding them every step in a quintessential experience no one should miss.

Khwai River Lodge

The Khwai River floods the Moremi Game Reserve on the Okavango Delta's southeastern periphery. The beautiful Khwai River Lodge sits on its banks, and from the viewing deck, it almost feels as though you are floating alongside the lily pads of the swamps. 

Eagle Island

This luxury safari lodge, which has existed since the 1980s but was beautifully renovated in 2015 to give it a refreshingly modern look in the same breathtaking landscape, is an old favorite of many. Mokoros, the traditional canoes of the area, is a wonderful experience to try out here and explore the many rivers and streams of this interconnected desert oasis.

Sandibe Safari Lodge

Sandibe Safari Lodge is luxurious and beautiful, with a very accommodating and friendly staff culture. Children are welcome, and additional supervision can be organized for them. The lodge's guided walking safaris await the adventurous and are a great way to experience the wilderness here, in addition to the classic open-vehicle game drives.

Chiefs Camp

Chiefs Camp, as its name alludes to, is a camp fit for a king. The camp offers all the amenities one would expect of a boutique hotel in a big city, including a spa, gym, and, of course, an amazing restaurant. It also offers the many unique experiences of the Okavango, blending luxury and adventure.

The first entry on our list not found in the Okavango Delta has undoubtedly earned its place. This spectacular lodge is located within a private conservancy on the northern edge of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, an area untouched by humankind. The nights are painted by dazzling displays of stars, and the arid landscape stretches for hundreds of kilometers. Dinaka certainly warrants a visit, especially for those looking for something off the beaten track.

Jack's Camp is a beautiful tented camp near the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana—one of only two nesting sites of the southern lesser flamingo. The camp has been recently renovated and offers a beautiful and comfortable place to explore the area and its wildlife.

Chobe Chilwero

Choose Chilwero Lodge, which is located in the Chobe National Park and is famous for its huge elephant herds and lush greenery. Here, guests can enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature under the huge trees on the lodge's premises or experience the adventure that is Africa on a safari or walking tour.

• Adventures & Activities
• Best of Africa
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Tour & Safari Ideas

• Private Tours
• Tailor-Made Travel
• Safari in Africa
• Travel Destinations
• Find Tours, Safaris & Honeymoons
• Luxury African Safaris

Safari Tour Packages

• South Africa

General Information

• Travel Blog
• African Travel Experiences
• Kruger Park - A Natural Treasure
• Cape Winelands
• Garden Route
• Accommodation Finder

African Sky

• Client Reviews
• Privacy Policy
• Booking Procedure
• Travel Tips & Advice
• Terms and Conditions

This website uses cookies. To learn more about how we use cookies, please view our Privacy Policy . By clicking "I Accept" on this banner, or using our site, you consent to the use of cookies unless you have disabled them.

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana

Botswana has a stellar reputation as a safari destination, and it boasts some of africa’s top safari accommodation choices. here’s our guide to the best luxury safari lodges in botswana:.

VUMBURA PLAINS

The distinctly modern style of Vumbura Plains – with its cube-shaped, open-plan guest tents in pale wood, and wrap-around windows – caused a few raised eyebrows when it first opened. Having grown into its surroundings, Vumbura Plains will impress you with its sense of space and freedom. Perhaps more than anywhere else in the Okavango, Vumbura is transformed by the arrival of the annual floodwaters. Stroll across a sandbar in ankle-deep, crystal-clear Delta water as you sip your sundowner, or peer into the perfect blooms of water lilies in search of painted reed frogs. Vumbura Plains has a happy way of making dreams come true – whatever you were looking for when you booked your stay, you’ll most likely find it – and much more besides. If you never imagined finding modern architecture in the heart of Africa, or learning how to weave a basket from reeds, Vumbura Plains will both embrace and invigorate you.

• Botswana’s most uniquely stylish safari lodge.
• A wonderfully modern take on safari traditions, from morning coffee fireside to high tea.
• An infusion of Botswana’s understated but heart-warming cultural identity.

SANCTUARY CHIEF’S CAMP

Chief’s Camp takes its name from Chief’s Island, the large spit of dry land that forms the backbone of the Okavango Delta. The location is ideal, as it gives access to seasonal channels for water activities as well as never-ending floodplains. It offers the best of the Delta – and the best of Botswana hospitality. Being made welcome here means many things – you’ll feel relaxed and energized at the same time, and you’ll gain amazing insights into this rich, rewarding ecosystem even as you learn to switch off. Chief’s Island was once reserved for royalty, and the design and furnishings of this contemporary but opulent lodge evoke the idea of a hideaway fit for a queen or a king. Chief’s Camp creates a sense of modern luxury from moments as diverse as the trademark coughing call of a leopard or the roar of a lion as you drift off to sleep – in what could just be the most comfortable bed you’ll ever experience.

• Luxurious seclusion at the heart of the Delta, fused with contemporary amenities and design features.
• Guides who are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and drawing you in.
• Starlit meals on the expansive deck followed by a nightcap and safari tales around the fire.

ZARAFA DHOW SUITE

One of the newest properties on our list, this two-bedroom sole-use safari villa is something very special. It’s authentically styled (with canvas roofs) to recreate the romance and elegance of yesteryear, whilst offering a very modern take on luxury. The Zarafa Dhow Suite is in the private Selinda Concession with its setting hand-picked by award winning wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, who fell in love with its lingering lagoon views. The owners are incredibly well-traveled, and the style of the camp is influenced by their journeys to the four corners of the continent. This perfectly proportioned lodge can so easily become your own family safari holiday home – why not add the happy sound of children’s laughter to the glorious chorus of bush sounds as you enjoy finding your feet somewhere wonderfully new.

• Arguably Botswana’s most luxurious accommodation option.
• Steeped in love for the wild places of Africa – a feeling that you’ll find is contagious.
• Your own secluded hideaway to share with only the people closest to you.

BELMOND EAGLE ISLAND LODGE

Peeking out from beneath the boughs of ancient trees on a lush island, this lodge is just a few steps away from the flowing waters that give it its character, and shape your experience. Eagle Island has embraced its watery domain, and the waters have become the life force that flows through the very soul of this lodge. Spending time here lets you unlock the mysteries of the Okavango – and possibly also discover the secret to ultimate relaxation on safari. Continuing the aqueous theme, each of the twelve tented rooms is flooded with light, and decorated with swirling patterns that artfully echo the eddies of the water moving past outside. The tented rooms provide a cool place of respite during the heat of the day, while having your own private plunge pool lets you connect more directly (and even more refreshingly) with the dominant element in this wonderful wetland habitat.

• Quintessential Okavango water experiences – glide through your holiday.
• Discover just how relaxing being surrounded by beauty can be.
• Fill your safari days with as many – or as few – activities as you wish, and just be.

If the idea of tastefully selected pieces of Balinese furniture seems a little at odds with being on safari in Africa, then you’ve yet to discover the sense of harmony and equilibrium that pervades Jao . The first architect-designed lodge in Botswana, Jao is renowned for both its epic views of essential Delta scenery, and the attention to detail that is the hallmark of every experience that happens there. Completely rebuilt in 2019, Jao is ready to reclaim its crown. Two new villas and five tented guest suites combine with the double-storey main area that reaches into the canopy of shady tree. Nothing is overlooked at Jao – they even have glass-bottomed mekoro to let you immerse yourself in the Delta without getting your feet wet. If you’re on vacation with your special someone, a quiet word in the ear of the manager will see the two of you dining in the inimitable setting of Jao’s candlelit wine cellar, after a day spent enjoying iconic wildlife moments like red lechwe antelope running through shallow lagoons.

• A seriously stylish luxury lodge where no detail is too small and no request too large.
• Impeccable finishes, thoughtfully chosen interiors and a wonderful flow of energy.
• Immaculate service – sophisticated yet warm.

SELINDA SUITE

Enjoy the ‘suite’ safari life at this remarkable property. Co-located with Selinda Camp (itself extremely exclusive), this property mirrors the Zarafa Dhow Suite in concept. It comprises an entirely self-contained two-bedroom safari villa. The Selinda Suite comes with its own dedicated team of staff, plus a private guide and safari vehicle. Choose your own programme – or have no programme at all. Feel the thrill of running with the pack as you head out on game drive to spend time with the area’s famed wild dogs – the ultimate African predators. Selinda Suite has achieved that tricky balance of catering to your every creature comfort without taking away from the majesty of its setting – whether you prefer to watch sunrise or sunset, you’ll gain a sense that anything is possible here during the golden hour at each end of the day. And believe us, it is.

• Your own bush home from home – and you may never want to go home.
• Enjoy being on safari at your own pace and spending quality time with the people who matter most.
• Perfect for families or groups of friends or anyone who appreciates the finer things in life – like seclusion, privacy and exclusivity.

MOMBO CAMP & LITTLE MOMBO

Mombo means ‘place of plenty’ in a local language, and it’s easy to see why these two lodges make our list of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana. If you’ve ever pictured yourself on safari, you’ve been daydreaming about Mombo. Peaked canvas roofs blend in perfectly to the treeline, but this is a very different kind of camping. Step out of bed and glide across the hand-polished hardwood floors to the double bathroom, or continue outside to discover your own private sala – the ultimate secluded spot to combine a siesta and some impromptu wildlife viewing. Sundowners at Mombo’s iconic bar are an Okavango institution, with steps leading down to the floodplain, as if inviting you to explore the wilderness. Choose to stay at one of Mombo’s nine super-spacious tents, or book all three of the Little Mombo tents for an exclusive family safari lodge. Either way, you’ll see incredible wildlife on game drives and get to spend your evenings in the eclectic company of other guests, ranging from billionaires to butterfly experts.

• Safari chic gone wild – think metallic touches gleaming alongside organic elements.
• Some of Botswana’s top guides, with an uncanny ability to find even the most elusive species.
• Encounter a famous dynasty of limelight-loving leopards!

JACK’S CAMP

Whether your movie reference point is ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ or ‘The English Patient’, Jacks Camp is a legendary property that channels the romance of the desert and nomadic voyages. For many years a Kalahari landmark, the distinctive peaked white tents of Jacks Camp are being reimagined in time for the opening of the new iteration of the camp in 2020. Who could decline the chance to recline like a pasha on antique cushions and carpets? If you find yourself in a more playful mood, an encounter with a real-life Timon (or meerkat) will add joy to your life, while the otherworldly setting could just bring out the poet or artist in you. The new camp will update the renowned charm of the original, with Moroccan-style décor, a marquee feel, and a natural history museum composed of cabinets of curiosities. Whether you’re looking for prehistoric stone tools or want to embrace a mighty baobab, the new Jacks Camp will offer all the magic of the previous version, and more.

• A legendary lodge reimagined for romance and magical moments.
• Catch the secret stories of the Kalahari on the whispering wind.
• Discover the luxury of almost infinite space, and explore your thoughts and dreams under star-spangled skies.

Need some help planning your trip to Botswana? Reach out to the Alluring Africa team.

Go on, share this post!

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

• Australian Dollars
• British Pounds
• Canadian Dollars
• New Zealand Dollars
• South African Rands
• Swiss Francs
• U.S. Dollars

Talk to an expert +44 203 405 6666 Lines now closed

The fabulous tents at Duba Plains

Luxury safaris in Botswana

Safari luxury: our best camps & lodges, reedbuck safari.

8 days • 3 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

US$18,160 - US$36,280 per person

Mombo is synonymous with first class service, food, guiding and, in particular, exceptional game densities. Large, sumptuous suites offer a private retreat between safari activities - you might want to pamper yourself with an in-room massage treatment on your luxurious safari.

Vumbura Plains

Vumbura Plains is a high-end camp that offers – and delivers – excellent standards of food and individual service in luxurious modern surroundings. Enjoy the excellent game experience, or simply retreat to your suite to relax or have a dip in your private plunge pool.

Zarafa Camp

Zarafa offers sheer luxury and adventure in a first-rate game viewing area. Sumptuous suites are thoughtfully decorated but what really stands out is the attentive service and top-notch guiding. If you’re looking to indulge on your safari holiday, then look no further.

Wildcat Safari

4 days • 2 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

US$7,860 - US$15,360 per person

Selinda Camp

One of our favourite camps, Selinda’s rooms and common areas are beautifully designed, with the sumptuous en-suite bathtubs particularly worth a mention. Fabulous food, excellent guides and a team who go the extra mile combine to make this a good fit for a luxury safari.

Duba Plains Camp

Duba Plains reopened in March 2017 after a complete rebuild and now has six opulent tented rooms; tastefully decorated and featuring a private plunge pool, outdoor sala and air conditioning. Superb guiding, excellent food and a hand picked wine list round off the luxury experience.

Kudu Safari

7 days • 2 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

US$8,470 - US$22,560 per person

Sandibe Safari Lodge

Each of the stylish and modern rooms at Sandibe Safari Lodge come with air-conditioning, private decks with a plunge pool and a large seating-area making it an extremely comfortable option in a prime game viewing area.

Bushbuck Safari

US$13,570 - US$31,740 per person

Designed with privacy and luxury in mind, the rooms at DumaTau are spacious and airy. The stylish décor, large private verandas and cosy nooks with river views create a real sense of exclusivity, making this the perfect place to relax during your safari holiday.

Leopard Safari

13 days • 4 locations VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT

US$12,180 - US$17,960 per person

This luxury hotel combines modern comforts with traditional Cape culture in an exclusive waterfront setting. At Cape Grace you can expect individually-designed rooms with sumptuous beds and extravagant throws. Flamboyant décor and colonial artworks complete the luxurious feel.

The Highlights of Africa

17 days • 7 locations CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO KIGALI AIRPORT

US$14,350 - US$18,220 per person

Mount Nelson Hotel

Timelessly elegant with English colonial décor, Mount Nelson Hotel is perhaps South Africa’s top hotel and offer classic luxury in a tranquil setting. The hotel’s soft pink exterior, heated swimming pools and indulgent afternoon teas highlight the hotel’s attention to detail.

Victoria Falls Hotel

The furnishings and décor of the Victoria Falls Hotel evoke an era of Edwardian gentility, whilst functioning well with efficient modern amenities. For true indulgence, stay under the high ceilings of The Stable Wing, or in one of the hotel’s large and luxurious suites.

Sable Self-drive Safari

12 days • 7 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

US$6,090 - US$8,240 per person

Great Egret Safari

12 days • 4 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

US$9,240 - US$17,140 per person

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

US$6,140 - US$10,360 per person

Mushara Outpost

Tasteful wildlife images adorn Mushara Outpost's main area, which exudes an elegant farmhouse style. Each tent has a spacious bathroom whose outdoor shower has a view over the surrounding bush. It adds up to a perfect base for a luxury safari in Namibia.

Rock Hare Self-drive Safari

20 days • 12 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

US$5,190 - US$7,390 per person

Best camps & lodges for Luxury in Botswana

The opulent rooms at Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge offer a plush retreat in the bush, with four-poster beds, private plunge pools and luxuriously deep bathtubs. The team provide attentive service and an opportunity to change pace and enjoy the beautiful surroundings on a luxury safari.

Jao is a camp to be experienced for itself as much as for its beautiful surroundings. The large suites are luxurious and service levels are high with the aim of offering a more personal, adaptable experience. The spa is also very good, a great way to relax on a luxury safari holiday.

Chief's Camp

Located in an area renowned for superb game viewing, Chief’s Camp was completely renovated in 2016. The enormous suites are opulent, with private plunge pool, air conditioning, and large bathtub. There is also a spa, for a little extra spoiling during your luxury safari holiday.

Duba Explorers Camp

Duba Explorers Camp harks back to the romantic 1920’s-expeditions style. Being in a remote part of this concession, exclusivity is high on the agenda. The owners value attentive service, superb guiding and excellent food. We’d expect nothing less for your luxury safari holiday.

Little Mombo

Offering some of the best game viewing in Botswana, Little Mombo provides professional, attentive service and some superb guiding. The luxurious suites are eminently comfortable and spacious. In high demand, you’ll need to book early to include this camp on your luxury safari.

Ornate wooden doors, vast rooms with four-poster beds, private decks with a plunge pool and an open-air shower are only a few of Kings Pools luxurious fittings. Add hard-to-fault service, excellent guiding and very good food, and you have the makings of a luxury safari.

San Camp is an enchanting camp with magnificent views over the surrounding salt plains. There is superb attention to detail in the unusual Arabic design, and the refined quality of food, service and guiding is just what you’d expect on a deluxe safari holiday.

Sitatunga Island Camp

With a focus on water-based activities and high levels of service and luxury, the team at Sitatunga Private Island Camp can curate a relaxed, romantic and personalised experience for a luxury safari in Botswana.

Six opulent tents at Abu Camp are individually designed and decorated, all featuring an outdoor copper bathtub and plunge pool.

Best camps & lodges for Luxury in Africa

Luxury elsewhere in Africa

Our top ideas and inspiration for Luxury in other countries.

Kenya is distinguished by the diversity of its landscapes, wildlife and culture – but there’s an ...

There are only a small number of high-end lodges in Malawi, but these are small, intimate and very ...

Mozambique is off the beaten track. The tourism industry is currently still developing and many ...

Wide-open spaces, seemingly endless wilderness and a sense of solitude almost guaranteed: Namibia ...

Rwanda offers striking scenery, diverse wildlife and great cultural experiences – but until recently, ...

With the sun reflecting on the deep blue Indian Ocean, palm-fringed beaches and lush forests, the ...

South Africa

South Africa is an amazing place to experience a luxury holiday. Here you can relax on incredible ...

When it comes to luxurious accommodation, Tanzania isn’t short of beautiful camps and lodges offering ...

Zambia has plentiful wildlife across huge areas and many very experienced guides. Although as its ...

With endless palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and accommodation built with world-class comfort ...

With great game viewing, vast national parks and some stunning scenery, Zimbabwe is fantastic to ...

Where to see wildlife species in Botswana

Maximise the chances of seeing your favourite animals based on traveller sightings reports from the field.

Panthera leo

Lions are at the top of the food chain and also most safari wish-lists, but with their numbers falling fast, any encounter with these majestic apex predators always feels like a privilege.

81% SUCCESS

3,059 sightings from 3,770 observations

Where to see lion in Botswana

Panthera pardus

The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, leopard occur across many habitats, from wild tracts to populated areas. Their grace and their elusive nature make them a unique safari drawcard.

47% SUCCESS

1,959 sightings from 4,184 observations

Where to see leopard in Botswana

Acinonyx jubatus

The cheetah is the fastest land animal and the only cat that hunts by pure speed. Found largely in open grasslands, its slim, elegant form is today an increasingly rare sight.

33% SUCCESS

1,056 sightings from 3,213 observations

Where to see cheetah in Botswana

Lycaon pictus

African wild dogs are among the continent’s most compelling animals. Much misunderstood, these rare, tie-dyed canids are amazingly efficient hunters with a fascinating social life.

32% SUCCESS

884 sightings from 2,803 observations

Where to see wild dog in Botswana

Spotted Hyena

Crocuta crocuta

The spotted hyena may be thought of as ‘ugly’ and ‘cowardly’. In fact, this versatile and intelligent carnivore is one of Africa’s most fascinating and warrants attention on any safari.

55% SUCCESS

2,189 sightings from 3,983 observations

Where to see spotted hyena in Botswana

Brown Hyena

Parahyaena brunnea

This largely solitary scavenger is one of the more elusive and little-known of Africa’s carnivores. Shaggier than its spotted cousin, it occurs only in the arid southwest of the continent.

16% SUCCESS

249 sightings from 1,537 observations

Where to see brown hyena in Botswana

Suricata suricatta

These highly sociable little mammals have an endearing appearance and comical antics. Found in the drier areas of Southern Africa, close encounters are a sought-after experience.

21% SUCCESS

90 sightings from 420 observations

Where to see meerkat in Botswana

Loxodonta africana

By far the biggest of the so-called Big Five – indeed, the largest land animal on the planet – the elephant shapes the very landscape it inhabits and is a defining presence on any safari.

91% SUCCESS

3,665 sightings from 4,035 observations

Where to see elephant in Botswana

Syncerus caffer

One of the ‘Big Five’, buffalo earned a fearsome reputation in hunters’ tales. By contrast, big herds of these sociable bovids are placid, but mount formidable defences against predators.

83% SUCCESS

2,585 sightings from 3,121 observations

Where to see buffalo in Botswana

Giraffa camelopardalis

The world’s tallest land mammal, giraffes are herbivores which have evolved many unique adaptations. Their iconic outlines tower above the bush in many of Africa’s wildlife areas.

86% SUCCESS

3,537 sightings from 4,114 observations

Where to see giraffe in Botswana

Hippopotamus amphibius

The territorial calls of the hippo create a signature soundtrack to Africa’s rivers & wetlands. Despite an endearing smile, this aquatic herbivore has a notoriously aggressive disposition.

89% SUCCESS

2,677 sightings from 3,002 observations

Where to see hippo in Botswana

Black Rhino

Diceros bicornis

The black rhino is the smaller and rarer of Africa’s two rhino species but has the more fearsome reputation. Shy and heavily persecuted, it tends to stick to cover.

30% SUCCESS

626 sightings from 2,064 observations

Where to see black rhino in Botswana

White Rhino

Ceratotherium simum

The white rhino is the largest and most numerous of the world’s five rhinoceros species. They are larger, easier to see and generally more approachable than the black rhino.

44% SUCCESS

498 sightings from 1,144 observations

Where to see white rhino in Botswana

Oryx are impressive antelopes, with a powerful physique and elegant markings set off by rapier-like horns. They cut a distinctive dash in some of Africa’s harshest landscapes.

70% SUCCESS

1,338 sightings from 1,922 observations

Where to see oryx in Botswana

Taurotragus oryx

Africa’s largest antelope, eland are culturally important from prehistoric rock art to modern game farms. Though widespread, they are also shy so sightings are uncommon and often fleeting.

49% SUCCESS

1,472 sightings from 3,002 observations

Where to see eland in Botswana

Roan antelope

Hippotragus equinus

Africa’s second largest antelope and one of its most handsome, with a powerful build and distinctive markings, roan are wary of people, but renowned for their bravery against predators.

23% SUCCESS

481 sightings from 2,048 observations

Where to see roan antelope in Botswana

Sable antelope

Hippotragus niger

Perhaps Africa’s most beautiful antelope, sable are renowned for their combative nature, even holding off lions. Shy and restricted in range, sightings of sable are always special.

463 sightings from 2,041 observations

Where to see sable antelope in Botswana

Tragelaphus spekii

The sitatunga is the most aquatic of Africa’s antelopes and specially adapted to its swampy habitats. Though widespread across Africa, only a handful of places offer reliable sightings.

19% SUCCESS

63 sightings from 337 observations

Where to see sitatunga in Botswana

Connochaetes sp.

Superficially bovine in appearance, wildebeests are known for their spectacular migrations sometimes in huge numbers. These resilient animals are some of Africa’s most successful herbivores.

68% SUCCESS

2,509 sightings from 3,705 observations

Where to see wildebeest in Botswana

The zebra is a quintessential African animal: the horse in stripy pyjamas at the end of every child’s A–Z. There are three species, of which the plains zebra is much the most common.

84% SUCCESS

3,864 sightings from 4,591 observations

Where to see zebra in Botswana

Smutsia sp.

Pangolins appear to be more pine cone than animal in their unique armoury of scales. These nocturnal, ant-eating oddities are not only highly elusive but also increasingly rare.

55 sightings from 3,360 observations

Where to see pangolin in Botswana

Orycteropus afer

The aardvark is one of Africa’s most bizarre and enigmatic animals. A shy, nocturnal termite-eater, signs of its presence may be scattered about the bush whilst sightings remain elusive.

69 sightings from 3,351 observations

Where to see aardvark in Botswana

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Other styles of holiday in Botswana

Discover all that Botswana has to offer

Birdwatching

Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.

Cultural experiences

Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.

Family holidays

Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.

Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.

First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays. 

Photography holidays

Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.

Private villas & houses

Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family

Riding holidays

Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.

Solo Travel

Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.

Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.

Walking safaris

Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.

Wellness escapes in stunning locations

Wildlife safaris

These trips include hard-hitting game and fascinatingly elusive species alike, as well as superb guiding and a variety of diverse ecosystems.

Explore Botswana

Login to Expert Africa

Sign in with password

Sign in with email link

New to Expert Africa? Create an account

Forgotten your details?

It's free & quick to set up

• Save your wish-list
• Send us an enquiry
• Pay online for your trip
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Give us feedback on your trip
• Full site benefits of the site

Need some help? Talk to our team

• Accommodation
• Botswana – Safari Lodges, Camps & Hotels

Botswana Hotels and Safari Lodges

Best luxury safari lodges in botswana.

You can't really call yourself a safari enthusiast if you've never been to a Botswana lodge. There, we said it! As one of the world's most remote and untouched destinations, packed with wildlife, it's out of this world. There's so much to explore, from the water wonderland of the Okavango Delta to the Land of Gentle Giants in the Chobe National Park and the ghostly salt pans of Makgadikgadi Pans. 

Therefore, when choosing a place to stay, you need to choose carefully, as it can make or break your experience. Lucky for you, we make it our business to know precisely where our guests need to be when. Our Travel Experts have traversed these plains in search of the  best Botswana safari lodges  so that you can get the ultimate experience.

• Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp  – Luxury tented safari camp deep in the Okavango Delta.
• Duba Plains  – Classic 1920s safari in the Delta Concession, renowned for its resident lion prides. 
• Little Mombo  – An intimate luxury camp packing a wildlife punch.
• Chobe Game Lodge  – Only permanent lodge within Chobe National Park.
• Jack’s Camp  – Acclaimed Condé Nast Traveller Camp.

Let's start planning

A Botswana lodge for every type of traveller

There's something magical about Botswana's landscapes and wildlife. From the winding waterways of the  Okavango Delta  to one of the world's largest collections of salt flats, the  Makgadikgadi Pans , and the burnt orange dunes and rolling grasslands of  The Kalahari Desert . Not to mention the bafflingly large elephant herds as far as the eye can see in  Chobe National Park . And, of course, all the wildlife, birdlife, flora and fauna in between!   To get the best possible view of all of this, you need the best possible home base. Luckily, thanks to Botswana being such a popular safari destination, there are plenty to choose from! Whether you're looking for five-star luxury in a classic lodge or you're more adventurous and looking for a luxury canvas tented camp, we've got the place for you. -

Discover the breathtaking Okavango Delta from the deck of safari lodge

The Okavango Delta is the  largest inland delta globally , and the hundreds of canals that run through its dense reeds allow for mokoro (a dugout canoe) safaris, giving you a unique perspective of the wildlife and surroundings, in particular bird-watching.  In the  Moremi and Okavango Delta region , some lodges offer year-round water-based activities like boat safaris, whereas others offer seasonal water activities such as the mokoro safaris. But don't forget about all the many land-based activities on offer, such as game drives, bush walks, photographic safaris, and more.   Sounds overwhelming? That's why booking with one of our Travel Experts is the way to go. We take your wish list, combine it with our first-hand experience, consider the specific season you'll be travelling in, and plan the ultimate itinerary for you.  Here are just some of the top  safari lodges in the Okavango Delta  region to consider.

• Jao Camp  – One of the most remote (and luxurious) delta lodges of Botswana,
• Linyanti Bush Camp  – Only six intimate luxury tents in the famous Linyanti Swamps.
• Little Machaba  – Luxury camp in the world-renowned Khwai Concession.

Chobe’s charms: some of the most beautiful safari lodges in Botswana

The  Chobe Region  is best known for being the Land of the Gentle Giants due to the enormous elephant population. But there’s more to see than pachyderms, with unique fauna, flora, and extensive floodplains luring all of Botswana’s wildlife. 

When choosing accommodation in the Chobe Region, you can take your pick from luxury houseboats, lodges, or camps. 

Some of our favourite places to stay in Chobe include:

• Chobe Under Canvas  – Get up-close with Botswana’s wildlife
• Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero  – Sanctuary in the heart of Botswana

Mystical Makgadikgadi Pans lodges

When choosing a  Makgadikgadi Pans accommodation  for your Botswana holiday, there are many to choose from. As the largest collection of salt flats in the world, the glaringly white landscape dotted with wildlife is something to behold.

Here are some of the best camps and lodges to consider for your stay:

• San Camp  – Set on the glittering Makgadikgadi Pans
• Leroo La Tau  – Front-row view of the Boteti River 

Book some of the best luxury safari lodges in Botswana 

Contact our Travel Experts

Let us plan your dream African trip

Our team of destination experts is at your disposal for a tailor-made safari experience in Southern and Eastern Africa.

• No results available

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Starting from

per person per night

Chobe Game Lodge

Gomoti plains, machaba camp, vumbura plains, zarafa camp, sable alley, little machaba, camp xakanaxa, savute safari lodge, sanctuary chief's camp, how it works.

• 1 Describe your dream trip
• 2 A Travel Expert will help curate your experience
• 3 Confirm & start packing

Let's plan your trip

Enquire now and a Travel Expert will get back to you within 24 hours.

Ready to start your journey?

ZA Number: +27 21 469 2600

Why book with us.

Our 5 Best Luxury Lodges in Okavango Delta, Botswana

Written by Lauren Maker

Botswana offers one of Africa’s finest and most exquisite  safari destinations  to escape to and explore:  the Okavango Delta .

In an untouched ecosystem, the Delta is one of nature’s supreme masterpieces. This UNSECO World Heritage Site gives you ample opportunities to view the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) in a virtually untouched ecosystem. The great extensive, grassy floodplains are home to the most dazzling array of wild animals, including the specially adapted sitatunga and red lechwe antelopes.  

Whether you like land or water-based activities, when planning a  safari trip to Botswana , you will need a place to stay.  We have compiled a list of the most luxurious top 5 camps and lodges in Botswana’s Okavango Delta.  Handpicked by us, to make your  African family vacation , luxury  honeymoon  or  adventure  the most special, holding memories that last forever under the African stars. 

Duba Plains  

Duba Plains Camp sits in the heart of the Okavango Delta among an environment of beautiful islands, floodplains and forest on a 33,000-hectare private reserve.  All the rooms are raised on railway sleeper decking, giving you sensational views of the floodplain and the steady gathering of all wildlife.   

Each tent has a lounge area, environmentally friendly air-conditioning system over your bed as well as a ceiling fan keeping the tent cool at night.  Spend your downtime on your private verandah with a private plunge pool and shaded sala. Known as a   Botswana glamping luxury experience, Duba Plains never disappoints.  The main camp area situated under shady ebony trees includes a raised dining room, lounge, interactive kitchen, wine cellar and a library, the perfect spot for fine dining and the centre point for all guests.   

Duba Plains offers astonishing wildlife experiences from lions and leopards to elephants, lechwe, buffalo and everything in between. The area is also known for sightings of the elusive aardwolf and endangered pangolins.  Your activities are early morning and late afternoon game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, and you’ll also be spoilt with boat-based activities should the water levels be good.  

This tented camp in the Okavango Delta is small and intimate, with just five tented rooms and a maximum of 10 guests.  Children from 8 years are welcome. This intimate lodge is perfect for honeymooners, a couple and friends travelling together. Duba Plains is authentic, spacious and luxurious.   

Mombo Camp  

Although newly rebuilt, Mombo Camp continues to uphold camp traditions and history stretching back nearly 30 years, including celebrating one of the country’s greatest conservation successes, the reintroduction of black and white rhino into the wilderness of Botswana. Mombo is known as The Place of Plenty’ as this area has massive concentrations of plains game and predators.   

The best way to witness this remarkable game is on a 4X4 drive, both early morning and early evening.  Your very experienced game ranger and tracker will find you the best sightings.  From lechwe to giraffe, elephant to buffalo.  Mombo Camp doesn’t offer mokoro or walking safaris, but this does not matter when most guests are treated to up-close sightings of lion, spotted hyena and leopard.  Another special way to enjoy your day is to watch from the camp decks as the Moporota Lion Pride chases its prey right through camp! 

Eight spacious suites overlook endless views of the Okavango floodplains crowded with constant wildlife.  These suites consist of beautifully appointed sitting rooms with a separate bedroom and bathroom – as well as an outdoor shower!  

Chief’s Camp  

Steadily rated as one of the top safari camps in Botswana, Chief’s Camp is found in a part of the Delta where rhinos can be seen in their natural environment. This area is around Chief’s Island is seasonally filled with water, making this a perfect spot for Big Five viewing all year round.  Chief’s Island is a very happy place for predators and is known as the ‘Predator Capital of Africa’.   

Chief’s Camp offers travellers their very own stylish bush pavilion, each featuring a relaxed outdoor area overlooking the floodplains and a private plunge pool! In the main area, comfortable dining facilities, a bar, curio shop and library create spaces for relaxation and enjoyment – all situated under extensive jackalberry, sausage and rain trees.  

Your activities at Chief’s are extensive; game drives are conducted during the early morning and late afternoon, teamed up with excellent guides who endeavour to bring you the best of the Delta.  However, the highlight experience at this lodge is the mokoro (dugout canoe) excursion. This incredible experience includes spotting the wide array of birds that frequent the area, tiny reed frogs and animals drinking on the banks.  

Jao Camp  

Jao Camp lies on the shoreline of a Delta Island, protected by wild mangosteen, ebony and leadwood trees.  This camp is set on a remote island and accessible only by air.  Masterfully built on numerous levels, decorated with African wood carvings and local artwork, this wonderful camp is well known for having one of the best spas in Botswana. Jao Camp is situated in the Jao Flats, an area known for its absolute blissful beauty, and where it’s possible to enjoy both land and water-based activities.  

This intimate and unique camp includes 9 suites and 2 villas, with a comfortable main area that is elevated into a tree canopy; this open-plan living experience really blends into the surrounding environement. Beautiful, spacious tents with private decks make the most of the Delta sunsets. 

Another unusual addition to Jao Camp is its well-received entertainment room, made for private dining, children’s activities, watching wildlife documentaries and wildlife lectures.  This is a very special addition and is well enjoyed by families.   

A visit to Jao means a wealth of activities and experiences. The Jao spa offers an unforgettable balance between rejuvenation and relaxation, while the rustic sleep-out canopy has been built for the adventurous at heart!  Enjoy guided walks, mokoro excursions, 4×4 guided game drives, bird-watching and sundowners on the water, while a full day game drive and picnic on Hunda Island is not to be missed! 

Xigera Safari Lodge 

Xigera Safari Lodge (pronounced ‘Kee-jera’) is set to open on 1 December 2020, and is found on the western side of the Moremi Game Reserve.  Meticulously intended to frame the breathtaking deltas and riverine forests, the lodge is in complete synergy with the Okavango Delta.    

Xigera is a labour of love, born out of love of the hospitality industry! As part of the family-owned and run Red Carnation Collection, the lodge joins an array of exceptional accommodation around the world that already has a reputation for transforming and creating experiences that are quite extraordinary. 

This lodge has front-row seats to the Delta’s magic!  Each suite has been handcrafted and built with flame-torched timber, overlooking wild lily-filled lagoons. From your private bathroom (complete with indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a free-standing bathtub), to a private deck and daybed, each suite at Xigera is a place to unwind and take in the natural beauty.  

One of the undeniable perks at Xigera is the pure flexibility afforded to each guest. Enjoy game drives at your own leisure, disappear into the bush for a private breakfast or picnic, enjoy a glass-bottomed mokoro excursion, or head up onto the elevated deck of the lodge motorboat for an afternoon game viewing session. From feet-in-the-water sundowner cocktails to private walking safaris, photographic excursions and yoga sessions, there is so much to do and experience at Xigera. 

Xigera has been innovatively designed to protect its pristine environment; it is 100% solar powered, with a dedicated focus on sustainability.  The lodge and its staff are dedicated to guarding this valuable space, and to empowering local communities, alongside environmentally conscious hospitality and sustainable conservation initiatives. Working together with The TreadRight Foundation, they are committed to ensuring that the unique wildlife surrounding Xigera survives and thrives. 

While these luxury Botswana camps and lodges certainly stand out, the clear winner is the natural backdrop – the Okavango Delta. This natural jewel and World Heritage Site is truly one of Botswana’s greatest – and most treasured – destinations.  

If you’re looking for a world-class African safari, then consider a trip to the Okavango Delta – ideally combined with  Chobe National Park ,  Victoria Falls  or the Makgadikadi Pans, the Delta is truly in a world of its own. Contact us to make your safari dreams a reality. 

Join Our Newsletter

Destinations.

• Food & Wine
• Luxury Experiences
• Mindfulness & Wellness
• Romantic Safaris
• South Africa
• Stories from Africa
• Sustainability & Conservation

Top/Featured Item

• Travel Advice
• Travel Tips
• Wildlife & Birdlife

Popular Posts

5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Great Migration

Kenya and tanzania.

8 Places You Can Find Lions on Safari

Adventure, botswana, kenya, safari, south africa, tanzania, wildlife & birdlife, and zambia.

8 Spectacular Safari Destinations in Southern Africa

Safari, south africa, top/featured item, travel advice, zambia, and zimbabwe.

A Birder’s Delight – a Safari at Thorntree River Lodge

Adventure, safari, wildlife & birdlife, and zambia.

A few days at White Pearl in southern Mozambique

Related trips, african bush camps family safari adventure, discover africa together on a family safari., authentic botswana & zambia safari, experience two of southern africa’s best safari destinations., classic southern africa explorer, classic and curated, this 15-day safari experience is unforgettable., luxury south african discovery, be inspired by some of southern africa’s iconic destinations., ultimate botswana & zambezi river luxury safari, embark on an ultra-luxury safari in botswana & zimbabwe., romantic red carnation cape town & okavango delta safari, a luxury beach to bush safari from cape town to botswana, affordable chobe & moremi wildlife safari, experience the classic safari destinations of botswana, luxury xigera safari in the okavango delta, pristine wildlife encounters in botswana, okavango delta and khwai private reserve luxury safari, luxury botswana wilderness safari, a sanctuary of wildlife, water & luxury in botswana, take in the okavango delta, chobe national park and the spectacular zambezi river., the best of botswana, be surrounded by nature & wildlife in beautiful botswana, remote romantic delta & zambia, feel connected to the raw beauty of botswana and zambia, trust. experience. expertise: we are explorer.

Connect With Us

Useful links.

• Sustainability
• Travel Insurance
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Subscribe to our Newsletter

Associations

STORIES FROM AFRICA

Travel ideas and inspirational trips delivered straight to your inbox. Start writing your own adventure story!

• &BEYOND LODGES
• South Africa
• Flying solo
• With my partner
• With my family
• Adventurous

Responsible Travel

• Private Travel
• Slow Travel
• TRAVEL TRADE PORTAL
• MANAGE YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

Choose your immersive safari experience

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Central Kalahari Game Reserve
• Chobe National Park
• Makgadikgadi Pans
• Mashatu Game Reserve
• Moremi Game Reserve
• Nxai Pan National Park
• Okavango Delta

Why travel to see the world, when you can immerse yourself in it?

Botswana is not for the average traveller. A land of breathtaking contrasts, from the vast salt pans of the Makgadikgadi , to the sandy plains of the Kalahari , to the lush oasis of the Okavango Delta , Botswana is for the traveller who chooses to disconnect to reconnect, with themselves and the natural world, captivated by an African safari like no other. Sure, the usual luxury suspects are to be expected, but that’s what we call luxurious authenticity, forged in genuine warmth, unspoilt wonderments, and rare, crafted moments. So, if you’re the kind of traveller that seeks to glimpse the safari world as it should be, enchanting your soul as you go, then Botswana is for you.

Begin by unpacking our eclectic mix of Botswana experiences , ‘when to go’ calendar , recommended places to stay , adventurous itineraries , and other must-know tips and tricks . Our expert Africa team of travel specialists and guides, plus our 24/5 Global Concierge service, will no doubt ensure your Botswana journey is as special as the traveller you are.

Places to visit

Uncover botswana’s unrivalled destinations.

From immense elephant herds splashing in the cool waters of the Chobe River to an annual zebra migration meandering through the Linyanti and Savute regions. From untouched San Bushman rock paintings in the Tsodilo Hills to the stark and dramatic landscapes of the Kalahari Desert. From the magnificent range of specially adapted wild animals, including the sitatunga and red lechwe antelopes, found only in the Okavango Delta to Moremi Game Reserve’s renowned and brilliant birdlife. Botswana truly boasts some of Africa’s most varied and wild spaces, just waiting to be explored.

Our favourite offers to get you excited

Created especially for you, our wide range of offers allow you to tailormake your ideal African safari journey, just the way you want it. Alternatively, speak to one of our expert Travel Specialists who are able to recommend the best offer that suits your travel needs.

When should I visit Botswana?

Celebrated as one of the most exclusive and wilderness-rich year-round African safari destinations, Botswana boasts endless areas of protected natural terrains, untouched landscapes and diverse wildlife, seemingly tailormade for the most discerning traveller.

Explore Botswana sightings

Our guides and guests’ best safari moments, take a listen.

&Beyond Regional Guide Trainer for Botswana, Dux Mareja chats about the beautiful land of Botswana, touching on the country’s main safari regions and what makes it such a unique destination to visit.

Must-try experiences

Create more than utterly unforgettable memories.

If you belong to that rare breed of traveller that’s looking beyond the latest hotspot for an extraordinary sincere and handcrafted experience, one that brings you as close as possible to the land, wildlife and people at hand – you’ve come to the right place. Think guided bushman nature walks following along the paths animals roam free, habitual meerkats keenly observing the dessert from atop your head, and scenic helicopter flights rewarding unreal aerial views of the Okavango Delta’s most remote and inaccessible spaces.

Immersive adventures that engage all your senses

Slow life right down and encounter the bush from an entire new perception, one that highlights the small miracles, from smelling and tasting wild medicinal herbs to listening the alarm call of the grey go-away bird to observing herds of red lechwa antelope drinking from the very water you are gliding through. Follow waterways that were once taken by river Bushman and BaYei people centuries ago or tread mindfully in the tracks of the Okavango Delta’s most celebrated wildlife.

Adrenaline-seeking ventures, beyond the classic safari

More often than not awarding travellers with the rare opportunity to uncover the untamed landscape with very few others, Botswana offers more than your usual safari experience, but rather one that is intimate, remote and exclusive. Promising up-close views of unique wildlife and vegetation, take to the roads, rivers or skies, reveling in the semi-aquatic antelope, intricate network of winding channels, impressive Tiger fish fishing excursions and scenic flights uncovering far-flung inaccessible spaces.

Travel itineraries that give more than they take

What better way to uncover the magic of Botswana than through one of our incredible journeys ideal for solo travellers, small groups and families. Alternatively chat to our expert team of travel specialists and guides to curate your own Botswana adventure focused on your special interests and needs.

TAILORMAKE YOUR STAY

Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations

Explore Botswana with us

From exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore Botswana

Things to know

Everything you need to make your travel dreams a reality.

We love helping to make sure your travel dreams come true. In fact, it’s our top priority. With you every step of the way, our expert Africa travel specialists will undoubtedly put your travel mind at ease providing you with all the support you need to plan your unforgettable Botswana journey.

What should I expect on a Botswana safari?

With its remote wildlife areas and vast stretches of sparsely populated land, a Botswana safari tour is a very different experience than a safari elsewhere in Africa.

Frequently asked questions

Impact review: botswana, we have over 30 years of experience in caring for the land, wildlife and people of africa, and making a real and meaningful difference to the continent’s people and wild places., impactful conservation, explore responsible travel with us.

Wherever we go, we believe in creating meaningful connections with a light footprint. It’s choices like these that set us apart, allowing us to go beyond the expected, caring for the land, people and wildlife. When you choose to travel to Botswana with us, you’re choosing to travel with difference, aligning to our core ethos to leave our world a better place.

Skipper Mareja, Regional Human Resources Manager for &Beyond Botswana, talks about his experiences in tourism, from managing lodges in the Okavango Delta to making a difference in the lives of local communities. Listen to find out more about the many challenges faced by the communities living on the outskirts of one of the world’s best-known natural wonderlands as well as discover some of the incredible community-led projects being put into place to assist them.

Why travel with &Beyond

We have been making a difference for 30 years thanks to you, our guests!

In our hands

You will have access to our unique Global Concierge service 24/7 while travelling

Travel Experts

Our Travel Specialists never send a guest anywhere they haven’t been themselves

Finest Guides

Finest interpretive experience from our incredible private and specialist guides

Leaving our world a better place for years

Discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

• [email protected]
• US +1 813 217 5479
• SA +27 82 821 8876
• Award winning safaris
• Enquire Now

Best Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps of Botswana

• April 3, 2023
• Blogs , Botswana , Lodge , Luxury Safari

A luxury safari in Botswana promises a unique getaway with exceptional hospitality, unparalleled service, and the opportunity to experience five-star accommodation amidst its wild watery wilderness teeming with extravagant wildlife and birds. With all these elements, it’s no wonder Botswana has become one of the premier destinations for a luxury African safari.

What defines a Luxury Botswana Safari?

What does a luxury botswana safari lodge offer high-end clients, the safari region of botswana, our 15 best luxury botswana safari lodges.

What makes a luxury Botswana safari so special? You might think camping or lodging in the bush is enough, but that’s only the beginning. We evaluate three key factors to differentiate the finest Botswana safari experiences from the rest.

Experience a luxury safari and indulge in the stunning natural beauty of Botswana . Explore the Chobe River, Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Linyanti Wetlands – all breathtakingly popular destinations. To add an extra special touch, stay in a private reserve – away from the public and offering a wide array of safari activities.

A typical day in Botswana offers a wealth of activities – from a mesmerizing walking safari to thrilling day and night game drives. The magical beauty of Botswana offers water-based activities like mokoro rides, fishing, and magnificent sunset boat cruises that you won’t find in any national park.

Discover Botswana in style with a fly-in safari! Marvel at the breathtakingly beautiful Okavango Delta from the sky, winding channels, and wide-open spaces dotted with incredible wildlife. Step onto an untouched gravel airstrip and feel the thrill of an African adventure in its purest form. Then, take it up a notch and upgrade to a helicopter transfer between lodges and camps for a truly wild experience.

Access your luxury Botswana safari easily and quickly with a connecting flight from Johannesburg International Airport (O.R Tambo) in South Africa or from Cape Town or Windhoek (Namibia).

Visiting a private reserve or camp for a luxury safari in Botswana offers an intimate, private experience, as there are fewer suites to reduce human traffic. This is ideal for those wishing to enjoy a low-impact safari; three things can make it even more special. But nothing can ruin the excitement of spotting animals in the wild, like being surrounded by a large group of people, all vying for a better view of the wildlife in action. Fewer people, more luxury: that’s the mantra for a truly exceptional luxury safari experience . With limited numbers on each game drive, crowd control creates a memorable safari for all.

Professional staff and unparalleled service

The exceptional service, experienced game rangers and guides, and professional expertise make a luxury safari in Botswana an unforgettable experience. With the highest caliber of professionals on your side, you can take in the beauty of the bush with knowledgeable, skilled eyes and gain even more knowledge along the way.

Indulge in a luxurious lodge or camp with professional services like a personal butler, certified spa specialists, master chefs creating mouth-watering cuisine in the heart of the wilderness, private housekeepers and waiters, and more room for customizing your ideal safari!

For those who seek an opulant adventure, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Botswan a than by staying at a high-end, luxury safari lodge, offering the ultimate in luxury, style, and comfort. It promises to be a place where guests can relax and unwind amid the African wilderness, surrounded by the sounds and sights of nature. However, a high-end safari lodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that combines the best of African hospitality with the finest amenities and services. In addition, luxury Botswana safari lodges offer:

All-inclusive luxury

Many luxury safari lodges offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from accommodation to meals and activities. This means guests don’t have to worry about extra expenses or hidden costs. They can relax and enjoy their stay without considering the budget.

Attention to detail

As mentioned earlier, attention to detail is one of the hallmarks of a luxury safari lodge. From the quality of the bedding to the selection of wines, everything is carefully chosen to ensure that guests have the best possible experience. In addition, staff members are trained to anticipate guests’ needs and to provide personalized service that exceeds expectations.

Fantastic food

Another benefit of staying at a high-end safari lodge is the quality of the food. Many lodges have top-rated chefs who create delicious meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As a result, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes that showcase the flavors of Botswana and the surrounding region.

Unique safari experiences

Staying at a high-end safari lodge also means guests can indulge in an exclusive luxury safari experience. Game drives and bush walks are conducted in small groups, so guests can enjoy a more personalized experience. Guides are knowledgeable and experienced and can provide insights into the behavior and habits of the animals that guests are observing.

Ultimate luxury

In addition to game drives and bush walks, many high-end safari lodges offer luxury experiences designed to enhance guests’ enjoyment of the African bush. These include:

• Helicopter Flights
• Helicopter flights are a unique way to experience the beauty of Botswana from above. Guests can take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta or other areas of interest, enjoying panoramic views of the landscape and wildlife below.
• Luxury Sleepouts
• Sleepouts are essential for guests who want to experience the ultimate luxury camping. Guests can spend the night in a comfortable, spacious tent equipped with all the amenities of a luxury safari lodge.

Unique experiences

In addition to helicopter flights and sleepouts, many high-end safari lodges offer various unique experiences designed to enhance guests’ enjoyment of the African bush:

• Meet the meerkats at Jacks Camp –  Jacks Camp is a luxury safari lodge in the Kalahari Desert’s heart. One of the unique experiences offered here is the chance to meet the meerkats that live in the surrounding area. Guests can spend time with these charming creatures, observing their behavior and learning about their habitat.
• Photography –  For guests interested in Photography, many luxury safari lodges offer memorable photography safaris led by experienced guides. These safaris are designed to help guests capture the perfect shot, whether a close-up of a lion’s face or a sweeping landscape shot.
• Walking safaris – Walking safaris are a great way to experience the African bush up close and personal. Guests can explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the plants and animals they encounter.
• Boat rides – For those who want to enjoy the waterways of Botswana, boat rides are a great option. Many luxury safari lodges offer boat rides on the Okavango Delta or other bodies of water, where guests can observe wildlife from a different perspective. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of Botswana.
• Makoro rides – Makoros are traditional dugout canoes used to navigate the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Guests can take a makoro ride with trained guide, exploring the Delta and observing the wildlife there.

Embedded in the seemingly arid sands of the Kalahari Desert, the Okavango Delta is a lush oasis and a true refuge for African wildlife. A unique aquatic pulse causes the wetlands to shift, resulting in both permanent and seasonal landscapes. The area comprises vast private concessions, remaining unsullied and untouched by civilization.

• Chobe National Park

Chobe in Botswana is one of the world’s premier safari destinations. All year round, it boasts plentiful wildlife, mind-boggling landscapes, and abundant game and birdlife – including the Big 5. An astonishing one-third of the continent’s elephant population calls this area home.

Savute Region Chobe National Park

The area’s unpredictable water channel, the Savute , provides a stunning backdrop for exciting big-game viewing opportunities. The channel’s flow varies, creating a landscape that often fluctuates between marshland and dry plains. Nevertheless, the Savute region never fails to captivate wildlife and safari lovers.

Linyanti Concession

The Linyanti concession in Botswana’s north is an impressive contrast to the Okavango Delta. Nestled between the Okavango to the south and west and the Chobe National Park to the east, this expansive reserve covers 483 square miles of woodlands and two waterways. The mighty Linyanti River forms the north border of the concession and the border between Botswana and Namibia.

• Moremi Game Reserve

In 1963, the BaTwana tribal authorities created the Moremi Game Reserve, an unparalleled refuge for abundant African wildlife in southern Africa’s finest game-viewing region. It spans over pans, floodplains, lagoons, grasslands, forests of acacia trees, savannahs, and dense mopane woodlands, jutting into the Okavango Delta. Nowhere else will you find better game-viewing opportunities.

Chief’s Island, Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta

Tucked away in the Okavango Delta , Chief’s Island is a sprawling 386-square-mile sand island teeming with life. Mombo Concession is situated at the northwestern tip of this verdant oasis – a paradise known to the BaYei locals as “the place of plenty.” Mombo’s abundance of wildlife is unrivaled. Its position, just below the three primary channels of the Okavango River, has led it to be regarded as one of Africa’s most sought-after game-viewing areas.

Khwai Private Reserve, Okavango Delta

The Khwai Private Reserve, spanning nearly 500 000 acres and located between Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, is an animal lover’s dream come true. Blessed with an abundance of majestic wildlife, thanks to the through-flow from these celebrated areas, the reserve is even further augmented by the Khwai Riverfront – a veritable magnet for wildlife.

Selinda, Okavango Delta

The Selinda Reserve – an 830-square-mile sanctuary of unspoiled wilderness – sits between the Okavango and Linyanti water systems. Its center is the Selinda Spillway, which serves as a shield for the lush, tranquil surroundings. Majestic palms provide a backdrop for vast open grasslands and riverside forests, creating an enchanting atmosphere – especially during the dry season when game-viewing is simply spectacular

Jao Concession

The Jao Concession lies in the center of the Okavango Delta’s wetlands, where you can experience the wonder of Botswana’s landscape: from permanent swamps to dry land. At the Jao Flats, meander through charming, untouched water channels lined with papyrus and reed beds, and enjoy the captivating sight of lush palm islands. As you venture westwards, the Jao Flats become drier. At the tip of this sandy expanse lies Hunda Island, the biggest source of dry land in the Jao Concession during July-September. This area is filled with vegetation of sandveld, hosting various types of nutritious Acacia and Grewia shrubs. These flourishing shrubs attract diverse wildlife, providing them with the perfect browsing spot.

Nxai Pan National Park, part of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, is truly enchanting. From salt pans to grasslands, mopane forests to acacia, and the iconic baobab trees, the park offers a wide array of habitats for wildlife. Thanks to its higher elevation, when the Super Lake disappeared, it left a less saline residue, resulting in a typical Kalahari landscape. Home to the migrating zebra and wildebeest, visitors are sure to spot a variety of wildlife, making it a must-see destination

Makgadigadi Pans

Experience a one-of-a-kind safari in the captivating Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. From its barren, salty exterior to the abundance of animals that flock here, this destination offers many incredible opportunities suitable for all kinds of travelers. Whether you come in the wet season (November to April) or the dry season (May to October), each one is distinctive in its own way.

Central Kalahari

Experience a captivating contrast between the Kalahari Desert and the lush Okavango Delta on a desert safari in Botswana . Despite the strikingly different landscapes, they can easily be combined in a single itinerary to showcase Botswana’s fantastic diversity. Wetlands and monolithic rock formations offer a unique experience and form an integral part of the dominant Kalahari ecosystem. Plus, the desert provides more unusual and exciting activities to enjoy. In addition, if you’re looking for a truly authentic San Bushman experience, there’s no better place than the Kalahari.

Jewel of Africa Safaris is an award-winning family business run by a father and son team, Kobus and Neil De Jonge . They have spent their lives exploring Africa’s wild spaces and have handpicked these luxury Botswana safari lodges based on first-hand experience of the best that Africa has to offer.

At Mombo Camp, guests can enjoy the ultimate traditional safari experience amidst the stunning Okavango Delta floodplains. With unparalleled comfort and customer satisfaction, Mombo is a cut above the rest. Its passionate guides, personalized service, and attention to detail ensure the camp creates an unforgettable safari experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

• Beautiful African scenery, with reliable Big 5 and big cat sightings.
• Photography hides.
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Excellent personalized service

Perfect for : Romantic honeymoons and family holidays.

Duba Plains camp – Great Plains

Duba Plains Camp is nestled on an island, enveloped and sheltered by lush ebony, fig, and garcinia trees and embraced by magnificent, breathtaking plains. The spacious tents are outfitted with plush lace-draped beds, ensuite bathrooms with al fresco showers, flush toilets, and verandas with splendid views of the radiant floodplain.

• inviting outdoor sitting area with a central fireplace
• A raised deck dining room underneath colossal riverine trees
• Private veranda
• Bush campfire, adorned with cozy cushions and harem pillows.

Perfect for : Family and group holidays.

Xigera – Red Carnation

The Xigera Safari Lodge offers a truly unique getaway for couples, combining the luxurious comforts of a 5-star hotel with the serenity of the Okavango Delta’s riverine forest and glistening floodplains. From indulging in world-class spa treatments to savoring gourmet meals fit for a Michelin-star chef, Xigera promises an experience unlike any other.

• a range of water-based and Photography safaris
• Living art gallery
• Wellness center

Perfect for : Romantic escapes

Tucked away in a secluded area of the Okavango Delta, accessible only by air, lies the luxurious Jao Camp. Built on various levels, the camp elevates into the tree canopy of the surrounding jungle-like environment. Its innovative design has fused natural elements of thatch and wood to create an architectural masterpiece. Every suite is individually decorated. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels are ideal for viewing the surrounding natural beauty, and its stylish furnishings, local carvings, and artworks create an elegant atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Enjoy land- and water-based safaris
• A star-bed for a night under the stars
• Scenic helicopter rides
• One of Botswana’s best spas

Perfect for : Family getaways

You can live out your royal dreams at King’s Pool Camp, a 5-star safari destination. Overlooking the sparkling waters of the King’s Pool Lagoon in the game-filled Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, the camp radiates grandeur with its luxe design and décor. Inside, open and airy suites are thoughtfully appointed with local artwork, melding modern-day comfort with traditional African charm. The camp’s classic thatch and wood build further enhances its connection to nature.

• Walking safaris
• Boating excursions
• Luxury suites overlooking a beautiful lagoon.
• Reliable sightings of wild dogs and hyenas

Perfect for : Family and group getaways

Jack’s Camp

Having set the standard for decades in the Kalahari, Jack’s Camp underwent a complete transformation and reopened in 2021. Completely revitalized, this much-loved campaign-style property pays homage to its 1940s roots while providing guests with larger 800-square-foot tents. Rich textiles, antique cabinets, and overhead bed cooling systems adorn the iconic interiors, while outside, each veranda comes with its own private plunge pool.

• Natural History Museum
• Meerkat visits
• Persian tea tent

Camp Moremi

Indulge in a luxurious African safari at Camp Moremi with all your desired modern comforts. Disconnect from the world and stay in magnificent thatch-and-canvas safari tents, creating a timeless safari experience. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Moremi Game Reserve, going on game drives and sunset cruises on Xakanaxa Lagoon. Here you might catch a glimpse of a leopard perched on a Mopane tree and elephants frolicking on the banks.

• Panoramic views of the Xakanaxa Lagoon

• Friendly and attentive staff

• Remote and private luxury lodge

• Boating safaris

Perfect for : Romantic getaways.

Vumubra – Wilderness

Experience the unique blend of a beach house and log cabin in the untamed African wilderness at Vumbura Plains. With an air of tranquillity and plenty of woodwork, the camp has a laid-back feel, as if you were on the shoreline. But it’s not until you step out onto the elevated deck to take in the stunning view of the Delta’s floodplain that you remember you are on safari in the core of Africa.

Highlights :

• Reliable predator sightings
• Boating, mokoro rides & helicopter flights
• Hot-air ballooning (April to September)
• Night drives & guided bush walks

Perfect for :  family getaways and groups

Sanctuary Chiefs Camp

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, in Chief Moremi’s former royal hunting reserve, in the Okavango Delta. Marvel at the wealth of wildlife and wilderness and take part in action-packed, adrenaline-filled activities. Each pavilion offers a tranquil outdoor seating area and a terrace plunge pool. The Geoffrey Kent Suite offers two pavilions, complete with a private bar, boma, lounge, kitchen and personal housekeeper, waiter, guide, and vehicle. Consistently rated as one of the top safari camps in Botswana by Condé Nast and Travel & Leisure, this is one getaway you will never forget.

• Seasonal mokoro excursions
• Some of the largest suites in the area
• Personalized service
• Varied activities

Perfect for : couples and small groups

Eagle Island Lodge

Enjoy an unforgettable luxury safari at Eagle Island Lodge – situated on the majestic Xaxaba Island in the Delta. This luxurious lodge offers a selection of water-based activities, like motorboat cruises, barge rides, and mokoro safaris, to get you up close to the wildlife that inhabits the area. These include elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and big cats.

• Luxurious water-focused camp

• Horseback and helicopter safaris (seasonal)

• Variety of water-based activities

• Fish Eagle Bar, located on the water

Perfect for :  honeymoons & romantic getaways.

Zarafa Camp – Great Plains

Located in the private 320,000-acre Selinda Reserve, Zarafa Camp offers breathtaking views of the Zibadianja Lagoon, the source of the Savuti Channel. Each suite, spanning more than 320 square feet, is equipped with raised reclaimed railway sleeper decking and luxurious interiors, a lounge area, a beautiful bedroom, and an open layout indoor bathroom complete with a copper claw-foot bath.

• Home to rare species such as African wild dogs, roan and sable.
• For bird watchers, the camp offers a breathtaking view of the nearby African skimmer colony.
• Large rooms
• Rustic charm, without losing its luxury feel.

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge – and Beyond

At Sandibe, the architecture resembles a colossal pangolin nestled in the Okavango Delta’s lush forest and meandering waterways. Here, you’ll be immersed in the opulence of the locale and bewitched by the scenery. You’ll also be spoilt for choice with exceptional service and unforgettable gastronomic adventures. So take a dip in the plunge pool or set out on an exciting game drive to witness elephants and lions – rest assured, every corner of Sandibe will exceed your expectations.

• Unique architectural design
• Immersive kids’ program
• Magnificent helicopter flights
• Interactive kitchen
• Night drives & bush walks

Perfect for : Family holidays and large groups.

Chobe Game Lodge – Desert & Delta

Be immersed in the royal ambiance of Moorish architecture and extravagant décor at Chobe Game Lodge, allowing you to experience a premier safari destination in the lap of luxury. You’ll be awestruck by the spectacular views of the wildlife-rich Chobe River and be indulged by the luxurious comfort and modern design of the lodge. With exceptional service and gastronomy of the highest caliber, you’ll feel as if you’re not in an untamed wild but in a sophisticated hotel.

• 5-star luxury
• Incredible elephant encounters
• Stunning sunsets on the Chobe River
• Eco-friendly electric boats.

Perfect for:  Families and groups

Camp Okavango

Camp Okavango, a secluded African safari camp located on the isolated Nxaragha Island, is a true gem tucked away in the ever-lasting Okavango Delta – a newly-declared World Heritage site. It’s an intricate network of deep lagoons, huge lakes, and winding channels. Here, visitors can expect to experience a once-in-a-lifetime water wilderness adventure all year round.

• Open-air design and elevated position
• Eco-sensitive
• Guided bush walks
• Birding and angling
• Sleep out deck.

Kalahari Plains Camp

Discover the grandeur of the untamed Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Its spectacular array of desert-adapted wildlife – oryx, cheetah, and springbok – thrives in the gorgeous, semi-arid savannah. On clear nights, witness the Milky Way stretching out at one of the most incredible stargazing spots in Southern Africa. Embark on exciting game drives to seek out black-maned lions and see the magnificent constellations of the southern hemisphere in the starry night sky.

• Exquisitely remote.
• Units are fitted with rooftop sleepout platforms.
• well-positioned for watching.

You don’t need to imagine an indulgent Botswana getaway. See it for yourself. Choosing a specialized tour operator to plan your  luxury Botswana safari  is the best decision you can make, guaranteeing an authentic and immersive encounter. If you’re ready for your own custom-made, luxury experience in magnificent Botswana, contact  Jewel of Africa Safaris  to start designing your dream adventure today.

Experiences

• Big 5 Wildlife
• Culture & History
• Desert & Dunes

Family Friendly

• Gorilla Trekking
• Island & Beach

Luxury & Exclusive

• Ocean & Coastal
• Photographic
• Private Guided

Romantic & Honeymoon

• Water & River
• Whale Watching
• Wine & Dine
• All Experiences

• Advice on Botswana Safari
• Africa Aebra Migration
• Africa Bush
• Africa's
• African Mammal Migration
• Award Winning Tour Operator
• Best 5 Star Hotels in Botswana
• Best Lodges in Kruger National Park
• Best Safari Lodges in Africa
• Book 2021 Africa Safari
• Book a Safari
• Book Boitswana Safari
• Botswana Safari Map
• Botswana Wildlife Safari
• Chobe River
• Destinations
• East-Africa
• Erongo Mountains
• Etosha National Park
• Five Reasons
• Flood Plains
• Fly-in Safari
• Garden Route
• Guided Tour
• Hospitality
• Hot Air Balloon
• How Do I Plan My First Safari?
• International Traveler
• Is Botswana Good For Safari?
• Kruger National Park
• Kruger Park
• Kunene River
• Kwazulu-Natal
• Linyanti Wetlands
• Luxury Africa Safari 2021
• Luxury Botswana Safari
• Luxury Experience
• Luxury Safari
• Luxury Vacation
• Magnificent
• Makgadikgadi
• Namib Desert
• Namibia's
• National Park
• Okavango Delta
• Okavango Flood
• Opinion Article
• Plan Your First Luxury Botswana Safari
• Planning a 2021 Safari
• Post-Lockdown Travel
• Private Tour
• Private Tour Operator
• Recommended
• Safari Postponing
• Skeleton Coast
• South Africa
• Spectacular
• Tailor Made
• The Caprivi Strip
• Top Attractions
• Top Luxury Lodges in Botswana
• Top Luxury Safari Lodges in Kruger
• Travel Africa
• Tripadvisor
• Twyfelfontein
• Victoria-Falls

Related Posts

Jewel of Africa Safaris is an award winning, family owned, South African, luxury tour operator offering you effortless access to personalized, tailor-made safaris in Southern and East Africa.

• US Mobile +1 813 217 5479
• SA Mobile +27 82 821 8876
• 284 Gouws Avenue, Pretoria South Africa, 0157
• Google My Business

AFRICAN SAFARIS

Top African Destinations for 2023

Top-Rated Safaris & Tours in Africa

Best Experiences on Safari

Our TripAdvisor Reviews

IMPORTANT LINKS

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

African Guide

BEST SELLING SAFARIS

Beginners Safari to Luxury South Africa

Highlights of Botswana Safari

Desert Wonders of Namibia Guided Safari

Best of Kruger Cape, Town and Victoria Falls Safari

Botswana for First Timers

TOP SAFARI EXPERIENCES

Big 5 & Wildlife

Social Media

Partnerships.

© 2024 Jewel of Africa Safaris. All rights reserved. Designed and Crafted by Location360.

• South Africa
• The Ultimate Safari Planning Guide
• Safari Packing List
• Safari Luggage
• Safari Budget Guide
• Safari Reading List
• First-Timer’s Tips
• A Typical Day on Safari

Accommodation , Botswana

Best botswana safari lodges: 9 incredible places to stay in botswana.

Botswana is renowned for its world-leading hospitality. Lodge staff are welcoming, rooms are comfortable and, of course, the safaris are second to none. But with so many wonderful safari lodges in Botswana, it can be difficult to choose where to stay! 

Luckily for you, I’ve done the hard work in this post. I’ve picked out 9 of the best safari lodges in Botswana that guarantee a wonderful stay, no matter what your budget . 

Nxabega &Beyond Lodge, Okavango Delta

Nxabega (pronounced Na-bay-ha with a click on the n if you can manage it!) was the highlight of a recent trip to Botswana for me. This luxury safari lodge has 9 tents, each with a King-size bed, an en-suite bathroom with a shower and double sinks, a writing desk and a seating area. Outside each tent is an outdoor rainfall shower, a seating area and a comfortable swinging chair, overlooking the plains that surround the lodge. 

All of the staff at Nxabega are bright, cheerful and incredibly kind. Guests are looked after by a personal butler, who greets them after every game drive with a drink and serves them their food each mealtime. Meals are served at individual tables set up in the dining room, on the terrace around the swimming pool or, on special occasions, around the fire in the boma. There are multiple menu options, but rest assured – they’re all delicious! 

Located in the Okavango Delta, Nxabega lodge makes a wonderful base for game drives and mokoro trips. The land around the lodge is teeming with wildlife including leopards, lions, buffalo, elephants and rhinos, as well as wild dogs, baboons and hippos. 

A stay at Nxabega can be booked directly through &Beyond or Go2Africa .

Sandibe &Beyond Lodge, Okavango Delta

Sandibe (pronounced San-dee-bay) is one of the most luxurious and best safari lodges in Botswana. Guests stay in wooden cabins on stilts, furnished with items that wouldn’t look out of place in a boutique hotel in the city. Each huge bed is surrounded by a gorgeous canopy, while the comfortable seating area is ideal for a lazy afternoon before the game drive. The bathroom is super stylish, with double sinks, a conical shower with a skylight and a separate dressing area too. Behind the large sliding doors is an outdoor deck with a comfortable bench and plunge pool overlooking the plains. 

Sandibe’s communal areas are like no other safari lodge in the world. The main building was designed to resemble a pangolin, with a huge curved roof and tapered edges. It’s filled with plush cushions, sofas and armchairs, a cocktail bar, a designer fireplace, a dining room and an open kitchen where you have the option to build your own lunch every day. 

As an &Beyond lodge, guests are allocated a private butler who serves the food and drinks and looks after your every whim and fancy while staying at Sandibe. All the staff we met were wonderful, and help you feel right at home straight away. 

Safari guides and trackers at Sandibe are some of the best in the world. They’re incredibly knowledgeable about the animals in the Okavango Delta, as well as the history and geography of the area surrounding the lodge. We were lucky enough to see a large family of cheetahs on our first day, as well as lions, elephants and plenty of other animals throughout our stay. 

Book a stay at Sandibe over at &Beyond or Go2Africa . 

Boteti Tented Camp, Okavango Delta

Boteti offers one of the best value safaris in Botswana. As a tented camp, guests stay in traditional safari tents furnished with double beds, storage chests and private toilet facilities. Each tent has a terrace complete with chairs overlooking the grounds surrounding the intimate camp. 

Boteti’s communal areas allow guests to fully relax both before and after a game drive. With soft furnishings and other beautiful furniture inspired by nature around it, Boteti offers a real home-from-home. Enjoy a buffet breakfast and lunch while observing the comings and goings along the river, and make sure to join the staff in the cosy lounge for afternoon tea. In the evening, candlelit dinners are served in the dining area after a drink around the campfire. 

The camp is located a short drive from Maun, with airport transfers included in your stay. Its location outside of the major national parks makes Boteti a much more budget-friendly option, but still, with the same level of exceptional service you can come to expect in Botswana. Safari activities on offer include traditional game drives in the Okavango Delta and Moremi, mokoro safaris along the Boteti river, and nature walks in the surrounding area. 

Book a stay at Boteti Tented Camp with free cancellation on Booking.com , or directly through Boteti itself.

Chobe Under Canvas, Chobe National Park 

As the name suggests, guest rooms at Chobe Under Canvas are tents located in Chobe National Park. But, they are unlike any other tent you’ve stayed in before! Each one is furnished with solid wooden furniture including bedside tables with solar-powered lamps, a fully-stocked bathroom and comfortable King-size beds, laid with luxurious bed sheets and soft pillows for an excellent night’s sleep.

Chobe Under Canvas is a mobile camp, where the whole thing relocates every few weeks to allow the land to regenerate. This means the camp staff pack all the tents, furniture and supplies into trucks once all the guests have left, and set it all back up in a new location as if it has always been there. 

Safaris here take place in Chobe National Park and along the Chobe River. It’s a very popular area among tourists owing to the concentration of elephants and other big game that drink from the river banks. Both game drives and trips on the water are possible here, giving visitors a unique opportunity to view wildlife from an angle not often experienced. 

Get in touch with the travel advisers at &Beyond or Go2Africa to book. 

Ghoha Hills, Savuti, Chobe National Park 

Ghoha Hills is an example of an absolutely stunning safari lodge in Savuti National Park, Botswana. With communal buildings and guest tents in an elevated position, every moment of your stay comes with an exceptional view out over the African plains and an active waterhole. 

Despite being made of canvas, it’s hard to believe the rooms are tents, as they all feature real wooden floors, comfortable double beds, fully plumbed-in bathrooms, armchairs and a private outdoor balcony too. 

If you can tear yourself away from your room, Ghoha Hills boasts a massage centre, fully-equipped gym and swimming pool, and plenty of areas to lounge, eat restaurant-quality food and take in the sights and sounds of the bush. 

Both morning and afternoon safaris are conducted in open-sided jeeps, traversing along the private roads and waterholes of Savuti and Chobe National Park. Guests can also request a day trip out to Savuti Marsh, Baobab Theatre, Bushman Rock Paintings and Pimple Hills. 

A double or twin tent can be booked online with free cancellation at Booking.com . Alternatively, book directly with Ghoha Hill.

Are you also considering a safari in a different country? View my favourite lodges in Kenya or South Africa next!

Omogolo Bush Lodges, Okavango Delta 

For an exclusive experience in Botswana, choose Omogolo Bush Lodges , which borders the Okavango Delta. Accommodation here comprises one or two-bedroom houses that are available for private use. 

Staff are on-call at all hours of the day or night, for housekeeping or other requirements. The lodges are all self-catering, so make sure you bring enough of your favourite food with you to last the duration of your trip (or a private chef!)

Each lodge boasts a spacious lounge area, fully equipped kitchen and king-size bedroom (or two, depending on which lodge you choose!). The houses are built on stilts, allowing for an outdoor shower, expansive balcony and even a private bathroom overlooking the waterhole. The latest addition to Omogolo Bush Lodges, Mangwane, also boasts an outdoor firepit area as well as a swimming pool, perfect for relaxation. 

Located in 1,600 hectares of wilderness bordering the Okavango Delta, the staff can organise mokoro boat trips on the water, or guided bush walks in the area surrounding the lodges. Self-drive safaris may be available in the reserve, but so check with staff for the latest advice before booking. The private reserve is home to elephants, lions, hyenas, leopards, wild dogs and many prey species too. Guests may choose to simply observe the wildlife from the natural waterholes that each lodge overlooks.  

Find out more about the lodges available at Booking.com .

Savute Under Canvas, Savuti, Chobe National Park 

As the name suggests, Savute Under Canvas is a mobile tented camp with guests staying in traditional canvas safari tents, furnished with a king-size bed, storage chest and private bathroom with a bucket shower and flush toilets. In front of each tent is a set of camp chairs where guests can relax after a game drive with their feet in buckets of cold water.

Perhaps the most rustic on this list of the best Botswana safari lodges, the staff at Savute Under Canvas still know how to deliver a luxurious experience. Exceptional food is served around a central dining table for breakfast, lunch and dinner, which is made all the more impressive when you learn it’s all cooked in the minimal camp kitchen or on the campfire itself. 

Safaris at Savute Under Canvas are a wonderful introduction to Botswana. Guests join their guide on a traditional safari vehicle, allowing for exceptional game viewing of all the Big 5 and more. 

Askiebos: Samochima Bush Camp, Okavango Panhandle

This family-run camp on the banks of the Okavango offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of the natural forest. Translated from Afrikaans, ‘Askiebos’ means ‘sorry, bush’, which is what the owners said to the forest each time they made way for their family home. This desire to live in harmony with nature continues to this day, with Samochima Bush Camp ‘s owners offering outdoor showers, organic produce and open-air toilets for their nature-loving guests.  

Each luxurious tent sleeps two people in super-comfortable beds, with private bathrooms, fluffy towels and an area to relax outside on the deck. Some have mini bars, baths and wi-fi, but make sure you check before you book.

The beautiful communal lounge is furnished with comfortable sofas, plush cushions, blankets and plenty of places to enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush, as well as the nearby stream. Home-cooked food and warm hosts complete the long list of reasons guests return again and again to this slice of paradise in Botswana. 

Though not a traditional safari lodge in that game drives aren’t included in the package, there is still plenty of activities on offer. Enjoy sunset boat cruises, basket weaving workshops, guided bird walks and much more. 

Book a stay at Samochima Bush Camp on Booking.com with free cancellation. 

Xaro Lodge, Okavango Delta

Xaro Lodge is another permanent tented camp situated along the banks of the Okavango Delta, in an area considered to be a birder’s paradise. Only accessible by boat, guests are treated to the peace and tranquillity of an exclusive lodge, and all the luxury of one too.

Guests stay in canvas Meru tents fitted with double beds, a dressing area and a private en-suite shower. But with these tents, it’s on the outside that counts. Slide open the large glass door at the foot of the bed, and make yourself at home with a glass of wine in one of the chairs overlooking the river. Bliss.

Communal areas in Xaro Lodge are the perfect place to relax, with plush sofas, bookshelves, and a large dining table where exceptional food is served. Outdoor spaces include a swimming pool, armchairs from which to watch the sunset and a firepit ideal for getting to know your campmates after a busy day in the bush. 

With boat tours and cruises on the Okavango, walking safaris with expert guides and excursions to nearby World Heritage Sites all available for an additional cost at the lodge, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. But don’t ignore the simple pleasure of exploring the area around the camp, keeping your eyes peeled for the huge number of birds calling it home. 

Stays at Xaro Lodge can be booked with free cancellation on Booking.com . 

With such high standards of safari lodges in Botswana, it really is difficult to go wrong. Hopefully, this post has helped you narrow down your list ready for an incredible safari. 

Now you’ve chosen where to stay, make sure you check out my packing list to get ready for your trip! 

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

Botswana: six incredible safari lodges

By Stanley Stewart and Douglas Rogers

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I wake when it’s still dark. Elephants are trumpeting from the island and I can hear hippos grunting beneath the lodge. Somewhere, hyenas are whooping. Africa is waiting for me, out there in the darkness. It’s still chilly from the night; at this hour, my game drive feels almost furtive, an early-morning raid to catch nature unawares. A white-headed fish eagle flies away into the grey pre-dawn followed by a host of long-tailed starlings. A startled impala vanishes like a ghost. Giraffes glide among mopane trees, and a family of warthogs retreat, trotting away in military formation, their tails in the air like salutes. Around a bend, a herd of elephants is shambling across the track, dusty behemoths glancing at us over their shoulders. Carefully tucked into the centre of the group, their little legs working double time, are two baby elephants hardly bigger than Labradors. At the first light, here is a vision of earth long before the arrival of man.

Botswana is arguably the greatest wildlife destination on the planet. The Kalahari, Chobe National Park, the Moremi Game Reserve, Linyanti, the Okavango Delta are all legendary habitats. But Botswana is also home to the luxury safari, with some of the continent’s finest lodges, and I have come to see two of the most highly esteemed – Wilderness Safari’s King’s Pool Camp and Jao Camp, both established in the 1990s – which have recently undergone major sustainable rebuilds. Founded in 1983 by Colin Bell and Chris McIntyre, Wilderness has always been a pioneer among safari operators. Long before it became fashionable, they saw their camps and lodges as playing an important role in conservation and community development. The work of their two formidable non-profit organisations – Children in the Wilderness and Wilderness Wildlife Trust – is what attracts shareholders such as Bono and Richard Branson to the company.

King’s Pool, an isolated camp set on an oxbow lagoon by the Linyanti River, was named after King Carl XVI Gustaf who came to Botswana on honeymoon with his wife Silvia in 1976. It’s the archetypal Wilderness property – luxurious, sophisticated and small-scale. Location is everything here. Bordering Chobe, it shares the national park’s concentration of game, particularly predators, but benefits from the flexibility of a private concession, offering a range of activities from walking safaris to scenic helicopter flights that are not possible inside the reserve. It is also close to the Delta, and days end with a sunset cruise on the Linyanti, a world of hippos, crocs and aquatic wildlife, where you can watch elephants crossing the river into Namibia. The rebuild is a delight. Nine tents look out over the water with hippos wallowing and crocodiles snoozing open-mouthed, arranged discreetly beneath colossal lakeside trees so there are great views of the animals but not of the neighbours.

Pictured: the bedroom of villa four at Jao Camp, Botswana

I say ‘tents’, but it is like calling Longleat a country manor – they are really stylish villas of canvas and thatch. Carved African doors open into spacious bedrooms with colonial desks, handsome travelling chests, wardrobes and a pair of double-width armchairs – the kind you might have curled up in as child with your mother to read The Wind in the Willows – where you can drink morning coffee while watching jacana birds tiptoeing across the water lilies. In atmosphere, King’s Pool is the close cousin of Zarafa Camp, one of Botswana’s grandest, where a lagoon is also the compelling focus.

Pictured: walking safari with a river Bushman

In the bathrooms , pale travertine stone surfaces frame double showers; motifs of burnished brass, bleached wood and woven rope recur in light fittings, wall divides and tableware; weathered artefacts such as bowls, shields and gourds are links to the cultures of southern Africa. On the main reception terrace, which is open to the lagoon, the different elements – library, bar, seating areas, dining tables, fire-pits and fireplaces – manage to be both connected and independent, allowing for privacy or engagement with other guests over supper of local venison carpaccio and a wonderful South African Shiraz. The property is also completely solar-powered and has one of the lightest eco-footprints in Africa.

Pictured: thatching made of recycled plastic at Jao's Camp

But for all its smart details, King’s Pool is still a classic safari camp. A short flight to the west, in the middle of the Delta, Jao Camp is something else entirely. Privately owned by the Kays family but marketed as part of the Wilderness Safari group, Jao originally opened in 1999 as one of the first luxury properties in the Okavango. Since then, others have been playing catch-up. With this overhaul, Jao has raised the bar again. The camp sits on an island of leadwood trees and termite mounds, in the midst of shallow lagoons in the wet season and savannah woodlands in the dry. Elevated on high terraces and boardwalks to keep above the annual floods and enhance game viewing, Jao feels like the world’s most spectacular tree house. It is contemporary, innovative and dramatic. Like Singita Boulders Lodge in the Sabi Sands or Chinzombo Camp in Zambia ’s South Luangwa, it has escaped safari traditions for bold design concepts inspired by its environment.

The architectural design studio of Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens has created award-winning lodges throughout Africa and I would put my money on Jao Camp adding a statuette to their mantelpiece. There’s a thrilling mix of materials: steel tendons and hardwood beams support soaring thatched roofs; leather and linen sofas gather round a fireplace flue of oxidised steel; woven room dividers overlook bathroom sinks of matt metal. Botanical themes run through the place like creepers, in tables printed with leaf motifs, lamp shades mimicking palm leaves and a cascade of white ceramic flowers tumbling down towards the bar, while the pool , gym and spa canopies are large, open-weave ‘nests’ of bleached sticks. As for the trees in which the whole structure stands, they become just another exciting material integrated into the fabric of the building.

Pictured: a giraffe skeleton in Jao’s library

There are only seven villas – larger, lighter and more open than Jao’s former incarnation. From the plunge pools and fire-pits on the private terraces you can watch leopards shadowing impala. Game drives are unrivalled. We track a lioness with two cubs strolling past with the indifference of a boulevard flâneur. Back at camp, my favourite place is the rosewood-lined museum filled with books, maps and artwork, and a giraffe skeleton that reaches the ceiling. In the gallery on the first floor is a fascinating account of the Kays family, who still run Jao and now count six generations in Botswana. That they were able to acquire this concession against stiff competition, and make it one of the most gorgeous lodges in Africa, is a tribute to their professionalism and energy.

Africa Travel can arrange a trip to Botswana from £6,950 per person, including three nights each at King’s Pool Camp and Jao Camp, full board, British Airways flights via Johannesburg, transfers and safari activities.

Botswana's Okavango Delta is the undisputed king of the African safari, a land where swimming lions clash with buffalo. Douglas Rogers approaches it from four different angles in this feature from the June 2017 issue of Condé Nast Traveller.

In 1997, the wildlife filmmaker Dereck Joubert was flying over northern Botswana in a light aircraft when he saw a cloud of dust rising from the earth below. Joubert thought it was strange, given he wasn't flying over desert but the vast palm-and-papyrus-covered wetland of Botswana's Okavango Delta. Back then the delta was still something of an undiscovered world and this north-eastern pocket of the oasis - a remote island of marsh, grass and riverine forest known as Duba Plains - was thought to be deserted.

Suspecting the red cloud was being caused by poachers, Joubert dipped the plane to take a closer look. What he saw took his breath away: a primordial battle taking place between a herd of Cape buffalo and two ravenous island lions, the thunder of the buffalos' hooves and sinewy thrash of the bodies creating that great swirl of dust.

Joubert was so thrilled by the sight that, four years later, he and his photographer wife Beverly moved to Duba Plains and built a home (later to become their first safari camp under the Great Plains Conservation banner). The couple went on to shoot two of the most spectacular wildlife documentaries ever made: Relentless Enemies (2006) and The Last Lions (2011), chronicling the dramatic conflict between buffalos and lions stranded on Duba by the incoming rush of flood waters.

Pictured: &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

I have tap-danced around the delta all my life, but never dived in. Born and raised in Southern Africa , I've travelled in and written about the region for decades, including the Chobe National Park in the north-east of Botswana, just 200km from the Okavango. Yet the scale and wonder of Africa's largest oasis has featured large in my imagination.

A Jackson Pollock splatter of blue on the bone-dry canvas of the Kalahari, the Delta's seasonal flood is caused not by local rains but by water originating 1,200km north, in the rugged highlands of central Angola. The Okavango River, known in Angola as the Cubango, flows south from those highlands for many months until it hits the flat Kalahari Basin. With its route to the ocean blocked, it then fans out to flood the landscape, seeping into deep hippo trails and forming swamps, islands, creeks and crystal-clear lagoons.

Pictured: the lodge bar at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

When we think of floods, we think of devastation, but the Okavango Delta flood is different. It brings life: a luminous mosaic of plants, fish, birds and other wildlife. Botswana is famous for its diamonds, but its true jewel is the Okavango.

For most of Botswana's history, access to the delta was limited. Local tribes such as the Bayei navigated the channels in dugout canoes known as mokoros , but only the eastern edge of the region, Moremi, had any significant tourism. It was designated a game reserve in the early 1960s, when the country was the British protectorate of Bechuanaland. Back then, Botswana was one of the poorest countries on earth, but after independence in 1966 that changed. Democratic rule established under new president Seretse Khama, coupled with the discovery of vast diamond reserves in 1967, ushered in prosperity and growth hitherto unseen in the rest of Africa. (Khama and his marriage in 1948 to a white Englishwoman, Ruth Williams, is the subject of the biopic, A United Kingdom ).

Today, Botswana is a middle-income nation, often referred to as the Switzerland of Africa. The delta's emergence as the country's unrivalled draw only began in 1993, when the government modified its laws to allow companies to lease land on which to build safari lodges. So began Botswana's astonishingly successful low-volume, high-price safari model: lodges are limited to 24 guests, structures must be easy to dismantle, and the relatively short 15-year leases drives standards. In Botswana's big-stakes safari game, if you want to keep your concession, your product had better be brilliant.

Pictured: Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

From a handful of camps in the early 1990s, there are now some 90 lodges in the Okavango Delta, many among the smartest and most expensive in the world. But the genius of Botswana's safari model is that even as the area has become more popular, it has managed to maintain its natural state.

In Botswana's big-stakes safari game, if you want to keep your concession, your product had better be brilliant

The other miracle of the delta is that it is not a monoculture. 'You can fly 20 minutes in a light aircraft from a marshland to a riverine forest to a grassland habitat on an island ,' says Joubert. 'In other parts of Africa you'd have to fly for hours to see such variety.' Such complex and changing ecosystems mean lodges here offer a variety of different settings and experiences.

This past December I finally paid my first visit. Travelling in a clockwise loop, I had four camps in mind that would give me an idea of how varied the delta can be: the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge in the south; Little Tubu, an intimate three-tent camp in the north-west; Dereck and Beverly Joubert's Duba Plains Camp, where I hoped to see those lions and buffalo; and &Beyond Sandibe, a property so stylish it is said to have completely reinvented the architectural possibilities of the safari lodge.

Pictured: the sitting room at Duba Expedition Camp

Just a 20-minute puddle jump from Maun, gateway town to the delta, is the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge . Belmond (formerly Orient-Express Hotels ) also owns the Cipriani in Venice and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxfordshire, among others. It has a reputation to maintain - and this classic camp, built in the 1990s, had started to look a little tired. So a decision was taken to close the lodge for 10 months and completely rebuild it. It reopened just before my visit in 2017.

Set under a canopy of fig and jackalberry trees, the main lodge is built in a figure-of-eight shape that mimics the bends in the Doro Channel, flowing 90 metres in front of it. A cocktail bar, its curved banquettes splashed with burnt-orange throws and tables laid with decorative chess sets, is at one end; a restaurant at the other, bird's-nest chandeliers of weaved brass swinging above. The most striking feature is a spinal wall in smooth black and rough grey Cemcrete. At first I was confused. Then I got it: the colours and textures allude to the hides of elephant emerging, wet and black, from the channel, turning grey as they graze and dry in the sun.

Pictured: entrance to &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

December is the green (rainy) season in Botswana, but conversely the dry season for the delta, which floods between May and November. During the floods the main means of game viewing is by mokoro or river boat. But what sets the new-look Belmond Eagle Island Lodge apart is something rather grander: 35-minute aerial safaris in a Bell 206 four-seat helicopter.

I take an early-morning flight with master guide Franz Schmidt, a 30-something German. Lions had been heard overnight to the north, and after removing the chopper doors to allow unhindered views, we take off to find them, flying low over an oxbow river, skimming strangler fig trees and scattering giraffes. Hippos and crocs wallow in the mud on the banks.

Pictured: the kitchen at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Schmidt points to a shady palm grove near a herd of grazing buffalo, the likely location of the lions. We circle a while and appear out of luck, but then I glimpse it: the tawny flash of a pair of cubs wrestling in the dust before disappearing behind the fronds.

The view is the thing, the land below a vast green plain dotted with palm trees, buffalo, elephant, waterbuck, warthogs and dozens of delicate termite mounds. Schmidt is as knowledgeable about the small things: palm trees are not indigenous here - 'their seeds come down river from Angola'. And those termite mounds, part of the classic delta landscape, are a vital element of the life cycle: they will eventually become dry islands on which animals will find sanctuary from the floods.

Pictured: the sitting room of Duba Expedition

Back at the lodge I find sanctuary in my tent, accessed by a wooden walkway from the main lodge. It has a private deck with an infinity plunge pool facing the river; the mini-bar is styled on a vintage Louis Vuitton travel case and is stocked with gin, olives and a cocktail shaker. I mix myself the requisite Martini. Later that evening I opt out of the regular game drive (wild-dog prints had been spotted) to fish from a mokoro , my guide Boitshepo Maphane poling me gondolier-style through the lilies and mud flats. I get some nibbles from catfish but the real thrill is watching four elephant appear on the eastern shore, slide down the bank, and wade tusk-deep to the other side, as if crossing a road. A herd of red lechwe antelope judged their progress like traffic cops.

If Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is all about high-flying glamour, my next stop, Little Tubu , is more concerned with keeping it wonderfully old school. This intimate three-tent camp, baby sister to adjacent Tubu Tree Camp - both managed by Wilderness Safaris - is owned by fifth-generation Botswanans David and Cathy Kays, whose family helped pioneer safari tourism here in the 1930s.Wilderness Safaris, arguably Southern Africa's leading blue-chip eco-tourism operator, founded in Maun in 1983, is still headquartered in the country. It's a winning combination.

Pictured: thatched rooms at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

Little Tubu's beige canvas tents are set on raised decks linked by a roped boardwalk leading to a shaded sitting and dining area, with a bar counter built into a giant woodland waterberry tree. The entire camp overlooks an open floodplain. During the floods a lower deck and boma (a sand-floor enclosure where afternoon tea of carrot cake and fresh-baked scones is served) becomes a civilised dock from which to step into a mokoro and pole out on game-viewing expeditions. In the dry season there are traditional, twice-daily game drives.

Heading off at dawn with a garrulous guide called Cruise (who I naturally name Tom), I see my first adult lions of the trip: three females and a giant male enjoying a post-prandial nap in the shade of a strangler fig. The bloody carcass of a red lechwe, last night's feast, lies a few metres away. For the rest of the drive I take in the spectacular bird and plant life: iridescent lilac-breasted rollers flash through a sycamore forest; scarlet fireball lilies and white and pink crinum lilies add dazzling bursts of colour.

Pictured: the thatched sitting room at Duba Expedition Camp

There is a relaxed, artisanal atmosphere to Little Tubu. Run entirely on solar power, it feels more like remote bush home than lodge; my tent has a ceiling fan, but no air-conditioning, and a rustic, outdoor shower (from which I spy a bushbuck grazing happily below me). At night, glass jars containing mini solar lamps light the walkways. The dining room table is fashioned out of a thick slab of felled sausage tree. Meals have a traditional home-spun feel, too. On my final night I eat slow-cooked pumpkin, bream fillets and a beef stew heated on steel pots over a fire pit, shooting stars darting in the vast skies above.

My long-anticipated visit to Dereck Joubert's Duba Plains Camp, did not, at least initially, go as planned. My stay was due to coincide with the release of a white rhino on the 31,000-hectare concession, part of Rhinos Without Borders, a campaign led by the Jouberts' Great Plains Conservation company to translocate 100 endangered rhino from South Africa to Botswana. Twenty-five have already been moved, but the Duba delivery was cancelled when word got out of a poacher's camp in the Caprivi Strip, 130km north in Namibia .

Pictured: interiors at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Botswana takes its conservation and anti-poaching seriously. Safaris long ago surpassed cattle ranching as the country's second biggest earner (after diamonds), and 40 per cent of the population in the wildlife-rich north is employed in the trade. Animals are the diamonds up here. The president, Ian Khama, in the same progressive tradition as his father Seretse, banned commercial hunting in 2014, and was a driving force behind the delta's UNESCO World Heritage listing.

We fly low over an oxbow river, skimming strangler fig trees and scattering giraffes. Hippos and crocs wallow in the mud

Great Plains has three camps in Kenya and six in Botswana, five of which are in (or on the edge of) the Selinda Reserve, in the country's north-east. Duba, however, is the flagship. In 2000, the Jouberts built a home here on the banks of a papyrus marsh (where they still live), then erected a separate six-tent camp after founding Great Plains. In 2016 they began a complete rebuild of that lodge and a new seven-tent camp set in a forest area overlooking marshland opened in March 2017. In addition, there's the fresh and contemporary Duba Expedition Camp: six sleek explorer-style tents of light canvas on raised decks, all set around an open-sided canvas dining marquee, with glorious views of a floodplain. Great Plains tends to attract fans of the Jouberts' films, and all their camps, including Duba Expedition, come with 400mm Canon cameras and heavy-duty Swarovski Optik binoculars for guests to use. It's the same hi-tech equipment Dereck and Beverly work with.

Of course, the great attraction of Duba Plains is what brought the Jouberts here in the first place: those animals captured so powerfully in Relentless Enemies . The film documents how the Tsaro lion pride, stranded on Duba, developed a taste for the buffalo they share the island with. The buffalo in turn learn to fight back. In one incredible scene the lions swim into the onrushing delta waters to take down their bovine prey. All the while the Tsaro numbers diminish, as the far bigger buffalo become expert at repelling the lions.

Pictured: the dining space at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

At last I am close to the battlefield captured so memorably by Joubert. Led by my guide, Kops, I cross a makeshift wooden bridge over the reed marsh (I can see the Jouberts' rustic home on the edge of the tree line) and then, rather like crossing a border into another world, the landscape opens up into a vast floodplain. It reminds me of Kenya's Masai Mara during the rains: lush green grass stretching to the horizon, broken only by watering holes and giant termite mounds. We find the descendants of the famous Tsaro pride lazing against one of those mounds, the male alone, several females and eight cubs nearby. There are buffalo too, but they respectfully keep their distance, as do vast herds of lechwe.

The following morning, we run into two young lions from the same pride ambling down a rutted road. A minute later, a warthog crosses their path. On such chance meetings hangs life or death. The lions crouch, then spring. That little pig has no chance. Within seconds, the cats are crunching through its bones.

Pictured: a copper dugout canoe at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

It's a 30-minute flight south from Duba Plains and then a half-hour drive to &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge , through lush grassland and finally a forest of wild palms and tall figs. And there it is, a domed building of overlapping white cedar shale rising out of a clearing like the shell of a giant pangolin.

A symphony of wood, two-and-half storeys high, with giant arched beams of laminated pine holding up the dome, its front and sides are entirely open to a marshy everglade too thick with reeds to make out the river running through it. Café tables of bleached pine dot the lower-floor restaurant; upstairs there's a loft-like mezzanine bar, its swooping counter carved into the shape of a vintage ocean liner. My first thought is, this would be a great concert venue; my second is to order an espresso.

Pictured: a bedroom at Little Tubu Camp

The 12 rooms, identical pangolin-shaped pods, are built on raised platforms, like most places in the delta. But, unlike most places, my raised box bed (with remote-control mosquito netting) faces sliding doors that open onto a private deck with a plunge pool overlooking the reeds. But the star of the show is the indoor shower, a conical tower built in the shape of a termite mound with a shower head the size of a satellite dish.

This is safari lodge as design hotel: urbane, fashion forward, relentlessly contemporary. Aside from the design, the ethos is reflected in the organic, seasonal menu: lavish breakfasts of fresh fruit, waffles and artisanal coffee; build-your-own pizzas and deconstructed salads (beetroot, goat's cheese, rocket) for lunch; and fresh-baked red velvet cakes and pastries for afternoon tea. Dinners of springbok tenderloin and rosemary rack of lamb are served in an open-air boma, the area lit not by traditional lanterns but giant LED balls suspended from the trees.

Pictured: a hanging chair at &Beyond Sandibe

Now here's the thing: I'm an African and I'm supposed to scoff at such opulence. This is not a real safari! There are animals out there! Why are people checking emails?!

But the truth is, I love it. Instead of going on the requisite twice-daily game drives I read on the daybed by my plunge pool, cool down in that conical shower, mainline coffee in the restaurant, and email and Facetime with friends back home. And I'm filled with wonder at it all. Here, in tiny land-locked Botswana, on the edge of a vast African wetland that 50 years ago was cut off from the outside world, I'm immersed in state-of-the-art luxury and design. Hat's off to the little country that could.

The Explorations Company offers a nine-night trip to Botswana and the Okavanga Delta from £9,500 per person (based on two sharing). These Botswana safari holidays include two nights at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, two nights at Little Tubu camp in the northern Delta region, two nights at Belmond Eagle Island Camp and three nights at Duba Plains Camp, which adjoins the Moremi Game Reserve. The price includes accommodation on a fully inclusive basis, all activities in the camps and internal flights. Not included are international flights to Maun, Botswana, visas and travel insurance. South African Airways and Emirates both fly direct from London to Maun, Botswana.

This feature first appeared in Condé Nast Traveller June 2017

Keep scrolling to see more pictures of the best safari camps in Botswana

Like this? Now read:

Ngorongoro, Tanzania - a guide to the best safaris, camps and lodges

The best hotels in Namibia

Bar stools at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

The dining table at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Interior details at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

Pans in the kitchen at &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

New cement domes at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Design detail at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Earthenware at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Exterior details at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Inside Belmond Eagle Island lodge

One of the sofas at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

A chair in the bar at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

A cake at Belmond Eagle Island lodge

Pelicans flying over the Okavango Delta

Jao’s lodge at night

• Dorsia Travel, based in Cambridge, England.
• +44 1223 755195
• [email protected]

Best luxury safari lodges in Botswana

News & Reviews News Best luxury safari lodges in Botswana

Botswana offers some of the best luxury safari experiences—and some of the priciest, but who’s counting? Beyond the spectacle of cute and cuddly animals killing each other, Botswana’s lodges are conveniently close to each other. A short flight can transport you to entirely new landscapes with different wildlife viewing opportunities.  If you’re “most people” (I know, I know, you’re an individual and beyond the intellect of the hoi polloi) then you would spend 3-4 nights per lodge, so the opportunity to conveniently move around gives Botswana an edge over the competition.  Most lodges are near the Okavango Delta and offer a variety of activities, from mokoro (canoe) rides and boating to traditional walking and vehicle safaris.

Here are the best luxury lodges.

The OG of Botswana luxury lodges.  OG meaning OhGoditsexpensive.  However, you do get something for your money, notably the finest lodge in Botswana.  The amount of money spent here is apparent at every moment, particularly around the bar and dining areas, but none more so than the rooms.  The detailing, local art work and design is exquisite.  The rooms are extremely comfortable and spacious, with fantastic food, top-notch service and the joys of air conditioning.  Do not underestimate or disrespect how great air conditioning is on safari.  Just don’t come here expecting a wildlife extravaganza; it’s more about water experiences and the occasional lioness sprinting across the plains. But hey, at least you’ll have the best milkshake of your life while waiting for the game drive.

Speaking of stunning designs, Jao.  It boasts stunning wooden artistry throughout, offers an abundance of space and has such an elegance to it, without ever distracting from the real showstopper: the views of the Okavango.  Their big focus is around wellness, with a small yet photogenic pool area called “the nest,” and a beautiful spa with near-addictive levels of treatments.  The food is superb too.  Ok, so there’s no air conditioning, which makes it feel like the sun has crashed into your face, but the gorgeous, spacious, open-planned rooms are still a sight to behold.

Like Xigera, it’s more of a chilled experience than a bustling safari heart-pounding thrill.  As a lodge, it’s almost flawless; as a safari experience, it’s more relaxing. If you’re after high-octane adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

Mombo, known as the “Place of Plenty,” lives up to its name with abundant wildlife sightings and luxurious accommodations. Mombo is the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, making it a must for a trip to Botswana.  Whilst it’s approaching six years since they rebuilt it, it still feels very fresh.  It’s not quite at the standard, as a camp, of Jao and Xigera, but in terms of the experiences it far surpasses them.  And isn’t that what safari is all about?  Otherwise, it’s like going to an NFL game because you want a hotdog and then leave.

Let me not make Mombo sound like an abandoned warehouse, though. There’s a lot to be impressed by here, including their pool, spa, and air-conditioned gym. Did I mention I like air conditioning? The colonial-style tented lodges offer breathtaking views of the Okavango Delta, often featuring large groups of animals nearby, such as buffalo. But if you want to see a hunt, there are few better places in the world to do so than Mombo.

Vumbura Plains

Vumbura Plains is all about variety. With a mix of water and land-based activities, this lodge offers everything from serene mokoro rides through lily-covered waters to thrilling day and night game drives, bush walks, boating, birding, and fishing excursions. It’s basically the Swiss Army Knife of safari lodges.  The accommodations are spacious and elegantly designed, with large decks providing panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. I adored the room design, camp ambience, and our fantastic guide, which led to some excellent wildlife sightings. However, the service was lacking (finding someone was often a challenge), and the food, with its oddly small portions, was the weakest of all the Wilderness lodges. Despite that, I’d still return.

Duba Plains

We come along to one of Great Plains flagship properties.  Duba Plains is definitely now on the rustic scale, and the camp is certainly not at the luxury scale of the above greats.  However, it still makes the list for a variety of reasons.  First of all, it’s really rather pleasant, even if the aesthetic doesn’t scream out and say it.  Secondly, the landscape and exclusive access to it.  Depending on the time of year, you’ll either be in a boat or driving around water so deep you’ll wish you were in a boat.   Known for its incredible lion and buffalo interactions, Duba Plains is a paradise for wildlife photographers. The dining experience is intimate, and the service is attentive, making it a favourite among those seeking a more down-to-earth safari experience​

It’s what you’d expect from a Great Plains property—almost luxurious but not quite. The colonial design is charming but won’t sweep you off your feet. Overall, the facilities and room are nothing special, but the setting, food, service, activities, and wildlife sightings are top-notch. It’s the Great Plains philosophy in a nutshell: not the Ritz, but definitely a solid contender.

Sitatunga Private Island

The new, great dawn of Great Plains properties.  Forget everything I just said.  Sitatunga is the latest in their portfolio and a showcase in how they can apply a luxury aesthetic going forward. The eco-friendly design pays homage to local fishing traditions that somehow inspired the owners, the Joubert’s to new heights.  Yes, a private island is in fact a safari lodge, as it’s surrounded by water from the Okavango. It’s all about kicking back and enjoying the tranquillity, as the activities list seems to have suffered its own version of shrinkflation. Expect boating, canoeing, and walking, not thrilling safaris.

DumaTau underwent a major transformation, essentially being torn down and rebuilt. This complete overhaul brought modernized facilities and enhanced luxury and added a new camp, Little DumaTau, with just four intimate tents. The refurbished lodge features a swimming pool, gym, spa, and stunning views, but the lack of heating (see? I  can talk about something other than air con) made it a challenge. The lodge’s setting by the Linyanti River provides stunning views.

The wildlife encounters were a mixed bag, if that bag was made of tears. The highlight was watching elephants swim, sometimes right from the room and other times up close on a boat. However, other wildlife sightings were disappointing, with only one lion spotted in two days and no wild dogs, despite the area being known for them. The guide’s lack of rapport didn’t help, making the overall experience less engaging than expected. While the setting was beautiful, the sparse wildlife made it less thrilling than hoped.

Not included

Who is a deliberate omission?

Abu Camp has parted ways with Wilderness and is transitioning to Singita and Kings Pool after being downgraded from “premier camp” status by Wilderness.

I’m always happy to admit I haven’t been everywhere. The other properties missing from this list that might make the cut are Selinda and Zarafa. Why have I not been to them? I’ll tell you all about it in my autobiography, “I have kids? Oh yeah, best get home.”

Looking for your next safari adventure?

Why travel with us.

As members of the same privileged communities we serve, we know what it takes to deliver extraordinary experiences.

Connections Count

Dorsia Travel is always up to speed on the best places to go - and the agency’s clients are always assured the warmest of VIP welcomes.

Hands-on and Honest

We deliver expert recommendations and guidance with unwavering honesty so you can enjoy the best experience with your friends and family.

Your Journey Begins Here

While every trip is fully bespoke and completely unique, Dorsia Travel doesn’t charge its clients fees; trips typically start at US$2,500 per person per day.

Written by Tom Cahalan on 21st May '24

Dorsia Travel’s co-founder Tom Cahalan’s take on travel is reliably candid. Here’s his take on what’s good, bad, and luxurious.

More About Tom

Your Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my details in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

You may also find of interest...

Property of the Month: June 2024

New rating system (again)

Upcoming adventures for Summer ’24

As featured on.

The Luxury Safari Company

WhatsApp or Call Anytime:

+44 1666 880 111 +44 7539 508 880

Email *please check your junk mail for our emails, or provide a phone number so we can confirm you received them*: [email protected]

Best Botswana Luxury Safari Lodges

Botswana is a very special place – as one of Africa’s most stable and peaceful countries it’s no wonder that this amazing area is well known for being one of the top luxury safari hot spots in the world. Of course this means that you also find some of the best luxury safari lodges and camps in all of Africa. The clever Botswana government originally started their safari career with a low impact high income policy, which means that no matter where you go the lodges and camps are spread far apart – meaning lots of wildlife and no game. Botswana’s luxury safari lodges are located everywhere from the famous Okavango Delta to the Kalahari. There is so much scope for luxury adventures in Botswana that it’s hard to know where to start. Here we present a list of Botswana’s luxury safari lodges and camp, all of which have been handpicked for experience, not just quality.

San Camp – Makgadikgadi Pans

San Camp is other worldly, and feels as if it might actually be located at the ends of the earth. The white Moroccan style tents are furnished with antique campaign furniture and have views of the vast salt pans which stretch before them. Nothing can compare to the feeling of space here and it is this, combined with the quirky and beautiful décor that make this one of Botswana’s top luxury safari camps. The rooms are all spread far apart and offer privacy and exclusivity one would expect from Botswana’s safari camps. Here highlights of your safari will be meeting habituated meerkats, walking with the ancient tribe of the San bushmen, quad biking across the pans and watching the milky way from the dining table or camp fire at night.

Kalahari Plains Camp – Kalahari

Another desert camp for you to add to Botswana’s list of top safari lodges and camps. This camp is half canvas half lodge and every luxury room has it’s own star deck, in case you want to enjoy a night out under the dewless desert sky. Here game viewing is excellent and extraordinary and you may even be lucky enough to see the rare brown hyena. You will probably see black maned Kalahari lions on your luxury Botswana safari, and if you travel between November and March will be treated to beautiful wild flowers and birds.

Duba Plains Camp – Okavango Delta

Duba Plains is one of Africa’s top luxury safari camps and is located in it’s own magnificent private conservancy which boasts a pride of lions, bigger than normal African lions, cut out for hunting buffalo. The camp is currently undergoing a huge refurb but their expeditions camp is there instead – a very luxurious mobile camp. Here the location is pure heaven and you won’t get anywhere wilder in Botswana… maybe apart from…

Zarafa Camp – Selinda Reserve, Okavango Delta

Zarafa is Duba’s sister camp and located in a private conservancy the size of a small country. Here the pioneering conservation efforts of the Selinda team mean that you can see abundant game and learn about the ins and outs of protecting areas which have become so famous. Zarafa is one of, if not the, most luxurious Botswana safari lodge, and often falls high in the category of most luxurious safari lodge in all of Africa, not just Botswana.

Selinda Camp – Selinda Reserve, Okavango

Selinda Camp is the sister camp of both Zarafa and Duba, and although it is not quite as opulent as Zarafa is still deserves its place in the list of Botswana luxury safari lodges we love. Again this is all about the experience, and the luxury suites and rooms won’t do any harm either! Selinda Camps’ rooms have large bathtubs and wonderful views of their surroundings, which are often populated with elephant and other game species. The atmosphere at this luxury lodge is very jovial, and you will certainly feel like part of the family.

Chief’s Camp – Okavango Delta

Chief’s Camp is run by renowned luxury safari operator Sanctuary retreats. It’s location on the famous Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve is second to none and you will often have big game wondering through camp, going about their daily business. This luxury Botswana safari lodge boasts some of the best guides and staff in the business.

Xaranna Camp – Okavango Delta

This modern and extremely luxurious offering from luxury safari big boy & Beyond is nothing less than magical. Every suite and room of this exceptionally luxurious lodge has been engineered to make the most of the light, views and surroundings and you can be sitting in one of the most luxurious lodges in all of Africa whilst watching an elephant just meters away. Here the service will blow you away with gourmet food, exceptional staff, and quite a few little treats which mean this lodge will always be at the top of the Botswana luxury safari lodge list.

Sandibe Okavango – Okavango Delta

Sandibe Okavango is another impossibly spoiling offering from & Beyond, this luxury lodge has just been completely refurbished and is now chic, glamorous and modern. Their location is second to none when it comes to wildlife viewing and wildlife movements. Here once again you will be treated like an absolute king and queen, and nothing is too much trouble. These lodges are well worth the price tag they come with.

Latest Blog

Asilia Kenya & Tanzania Update

Cottar’s Pre Migration Update

Brand New Gray’s Eden in Maun

Mara Bushtops Update on Kenya Floods

• Cookie Settings
• Essential Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. These must be enabled at all times, so that we can save your preferences.

If you do not enable essential cookies, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Essential Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• Auction Bids
• Auction Watchlist

Travel news, tips, reviews & videos of luxury hotels to help plan your vacation.

Bid & win a luxury hotel stay or travel item for your next vacation.

• Accessories
• Accommodation
• Experiences

Book a room with us for complimentary upgrades & VIP benefits like breakfast for two at your favorite luxury hotel.

• Find Out More

Recents Clear

Top 10 Best Safari Lodges in Botswana

popular post today

1. Camp Kuzuma

2. belmond eagle island lodge, 3. belmond savute elephant lodge, 4. belmond khwai river lodge, 5. duba plains camp, 6. zarafa camp, 7. vumbura plains camp, vumbura concession, 8. linyanti ebony & linyanti bush camp, 9. mombo camp, 10. meno a kwena.

African safaris are amazing. Whether you are a fan of wildlife documentaries or not, the real thing is much better, more exciting, and more mind-blowing than you could imagine. Africa offers the best animal viewing on the planet. Wildlife right through from breakfast until late into the evening and into the darkness of the night. Forget an apres dinner cocktail. For proper excitement, take a sunset exploration of the bush on the back of an open vehicle. It can’t be beaten.

On a continent renowned for its dry desert and bushland landscapes, Botswana shines like an emerald. Its northern waterways attract hordes of thirsty game, both predators and prey, some of which migrate from miles around during the dry season when water sources elsewhere turn to dust.

The best way to see this wealth of wildlife is to stay in a safari camp set right among the action. Most camps are very remote, allowing you to immerse yourself in the landscape and the animals it supports: from lion and leopard to vast herds of elephants, vivid birdlife, and wallowing hippos. We have reviewed the best safari lodges in Botswana.

Camp Kuzuma is a beautiful boutique eco-lodge in Botswana that borders Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park in the Chobe region of Botswana. This boutique lodge is nestled in the pristine Kazuma Forest Reserve. The lodge lies a 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls, a 1.5-hour drive from Nantwich, Hwange, and only a 1-hour drive from Kasane.

Camp Kuzuma is found in an exceptional safari area made up of vast open plains and a forest reserve that forms part of a busy wildlife corridor. It comprises of seven well-appointed tents that are incredibly spacious, boasting deep Victorian baths and king-size beds draped in mosquito nets. With a true commitment to eco-tourism, the camp is completely off the grid yet offers all the comforts guests may desire in their Botswanan Safari Experience. Camp Kuzuma has the unique advantage of being a base for hot-air balloon safaris.

The gentle hum and the rhythmic beat of African drums, rousing guests for another day of breathtaking wildlife experiences in the wilds of Botswana, announce every new day at Camp Kuzuma. The area is splendidly full of wildlife but impressively empty of people besides camp guests and staff, making it a true getaway!

During the days, the expert guides will astound with their knowledge of fauna, flora, and wildlife to discover. Besides journeying through the bush in an open-air safari vehicle, guests also have the incredible opportunity to experience the area by water and air (for an additional fee). A Chobe Riverboat cruise is an absolute must to watch hippos and crocodiles bask in the sun on the banks of the river while elephants get right in and walk across to the other side. And by air, you can peacefully glide above the plains, watching the herds below, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget!

In the main area of the lodge, you will find a rim-flow pool overlooking the busy waterhole where herds of elephants drink and bathe, and during the dry season, other animals line up to wait their turn. A sunken fire pit lies just off the deck, creating a space that invites quiet contemplation in the cool afternoon breeze and a gathering place for bush tales around the campfire in the evening. Guests will enjoy Boma dinners under the stars and a Shebeen Chic experience, a down-to-earth dinner with a delightfully local African flavor.

Private stone and canvas suites have charmingly luxurious old-world touches, such as high-backed Victorian baths, leather couches, and silver trays and teapots interspersed with distinctly Botswanan accents. These luxurious, open-plan tented suites feature private viewing decks, refreshing outdoor showers, and ensuite bathrooms with freestanding baths, double showers, and double basins. The suites are all connected with an elevated walkway that leads to the main area where guests will find the open plan dining area and bar, spa, swimming pool, and fire pit, and guests can enjoy credit card facilities and wireless internet at the main lodge building if they need to feel ‘connected’.

There are three luxurious Belmond Safaris lodges, all set in the unspoiled wilderness of Northern Botswana. This is where the incredible Okavango Delta floods each year, attracting a breathtaking diversity of wildlife.

At Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is stunningly designed to conjure up an explorer’s base, you can drift through the watery landscape on a mokoro canoe, spotting bright frogs and kingfishers.

Each lodge enjoys its own ecosystem, so the experience from one to the next is dramatically different. Together, they form an incredible safari journey that will enchant the most seasoned traveler.

Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is one of Botswana’s original safari lodges, perched on a private island encircled by some of the deepest stretches of the Okavango Delta, one of the world’s largest inland water systems, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The lodge is decorated to reflect an explorer’s base. Design highlights in the twelve spacious deluxe tented rooms include oversized beds with views of the delta, large outdoor decks with a vista, private plunge pools, luxurious bathrooms with large tubs, indoor & outdoor showers, relaxation and reading nook, and walk-in wardrobes.

Elephants are the main attraction at Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge , recently relaunched with an exemplary new eco-friendly design, luxurious spa and viewing hide. The majestic inhabitants are drawn to the mysterious Savute Channel, which flows and dries up seemingly at whim.

Indulging in true wilderness, this eco-friendly and sustainable safari lodge offers the finer luxuries in life, such as eco-friendly air-conditioning in the tented rooms.

All tented rooms are housed on raised wooden platforms, offering spectacular panoramic views shaded by a traditional African thatch roof. The large private decks are furnished with a huge daybed, two comfortable armchairs, and a side table, perfect for viewing wildlife, an afternoon nap, or enjoying a romantic dinner for two.

The interiors are luxuriously appointed with en suite bathrooms and a large outdoor shower. The four-poster bed, as well as a lounging sofa, are outward facing, offering uninterrupted views of passing wildlife.

Nestled on the edge of a leadwood and fig tree forest, overlooking the vast Khwai River floodplains and beyond into the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, sits the luxurious Belmond Khwai River Lodge . At Belmond Khwai River Lodge, the big game of the Moremi Reserve are in your sights. Giraffes, buffalo, lions, leopards, and wild dogs can be viewed from the beautiful raised, thatched rooms overlooking the floodplains.

The rooms are housed on raised wooden platforms, offering great views, and are shaded by a traditional African thatch roof. The large private decks are furnished with easy chairs and a hammock ideal for viewing wildlife or for enjoying a dinner in complete privacy. The interiors are luxuriously appointed with comforts like an en suite bathroom and four-poster bed complete with mosquito netting.

Khwai River Lodge private suite offers the ultimate in exclusive safari accommodation complete with a rim-flow plunge pool, as well as his and her outdoor shower.

Duba Plains Camp is a Relais & Chateaux Camp offering guests a setting unlike any other, featuring woodlands, islands and flood plains that shelter thousands of animals, including interesting Kalahari species.

Located in the heart of the Okavango Delta, in a private 77,000-acre reserve, you’ll find 5 luxury tents and one 2-bedroom private suite designed to blend into the landscape while also evoking a style of the 1920s.

Extremely comfortable and slightly elevated, each one offers private swimming pools, outdoor salas, stunning views over the plains, and water channels that can also be explored by 4×4 with a private guide.

Zarafa Camp showcases elephants, buffalos, cheetahs, leopards, lions, wild dog, giraffes and antelopes on a 320,000-acre private reserve. The region is renowned for the opportunities it offers to observe predators and the 300 species of birds to which it is home, including the rare African skimmer.

The camp, which overlooks the Zibadianja Lagoon, and its new villa, The Dhow Suite, were created by two safari enthusiasts, National Geographic photographers Dereck & Beverly Joubert, who wanted to protect this wilderness while also wishing to share it with others. It is designed with the environment in mind, with large, magnificently appointed tents in a traditional style reminiscent of the safaris of yesteryear.

Comprising two separate camps, Vumbura Plains is situated within a private concession in the northern Okavango Delta. Here, ample water sources attract a huge variety of wildlife, from elephants and giraffes to hippos and sitatunga (an amphibious antelope).

Both camps have their own lounge, dining, and bar area raised above the ground for views across the delta. With stylish interiors made of wood, they feel almost Scandinavian. There’s also a cushion-strewn deck and an open fire pit where guests can gather in the evening to share drinks.

With just eight rooms in the north camp (including two family rooms) and six rooms in the south camp, Vumbura Plains is never crowded. Each room is individually housed in a wooden structure with a high thatched roof.

Exceptionally spacious, they feature large outdoor decking areas with a private pool, a sunken lounge, and indoor and outdoor showers with views over the floodplain.

Floating along the water channels in a mokoro (traditional flat-bottomed canoe) with one of Vumbura Plains’ experienced guides gives you close-up views of malachite kingfishers, crakes, and little bee-eaters as they flit or wade through the reeds.

The camp also offers day- and night-time game drives around the concession, where you can spot big cats, wild dogs, and wildebeest. For something different, head out on foot with a guide for a more detailed insight into the local ecosystem, focusing on plant life and wildlife you might not spot from a vehicle.

Mealtimes are flexible, so you can spend as long as you wish on a game drive. From buffet breakfasts and afternoon tea to three-course dinners, the food here is among the best you’ll find in the delta.

Part of the Okavango Community Trust, the camp strives to benefit the local community and reduce its environmental impact. Almost all of its staff are from the local area, and water is treated above ground before re-entering the delta.

A remote wilderness area in northeastern Botswana, the Linyanti Wetlands stretch along the Linyanti River and are a key water source for wildlife during the country’s dry season (May to October). At this time, herds of up to 1,000 buffalo and elephants migrate from miles around to quench their thirst, making for some excellent game viewing.

Set just five minutes walk apart among Linyanti’s marshes, Linyanti Ebony and Linyanti Bush Camp both offer an authentic safari experience. The former has just four canvas tents (one designed for families), and you can book it exclusively for large families or groups.

Each tent is air-conditioned and high-ceilinged, with wooden floors, large windows, and a shower and toilet. You also have your own deck with recliners facing out over the surrounding wetlands.

Linyanti Bush Camp has six similarly styled canvas tents furnished with wooden beds and armchairs. Private balconies give views of passing wildlife, which could include elephant, zebra, sable, and a host of birdlife. Each camp has a communal pool area with a raised deck where you can enjoy private dinners under the stars. The open-sided tented lounge and bar area is another place to take in the views while sipping a sundowner.

The camps run activities, including guided game drives, night drives, and walking safaris. Best of all, if you’re staying for three nights or more, you have the opportunity to take a 30-minute helicopter flight over the wetlands, spotting wildlife from above. The helicopter lands on an island where you can enjoy a picnic while looking out for hippos wallowing in the water.

Located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Mombo Camp is the flagship property of the Wilderness Safaris. Mombo Camp is widely recognized as one of the finest safari camps in Africa, with its incredible game concentrations and interactions as well as having unique approach to luxury hospitality.

The Mombo Concession, home to Mombo, Mombo Trails, and Little Mombo, sits on the Northeastern tip of Chiefs Island inside the Moremi Game Reserve, the center of the Okavango Delta. Often referred to as the predator capital of Africa, the Mombo Concession hosts phenomenal concentrations of Africa’s famous ‘Big Five’ in one of the most beautiful parts of Africa. Lilly scattered flood plains and palm-fringed islands surround both camps as the crystal clear waters of the Okavango attract a remarkable diversity of African wildlife.

Game surrounds camp at all times of the year, with the Mombo concession being one of the few places in Africa to provide world-class game viewing throughout all seasons. The leopard and lion viewing, especially, is nothing short of exceptional. Despite Mombo Camp being inside the Moremi Game Reserve, where night drives are not allowed, the game viewing is exceptionally good, so good that you dont even need to leave the camp to see something spectacular.

With nine tents at Mombo and three at the neighboring Little Mombo, both camps are at the top of one of Okavango’s most beautiful islands. Shaded by huge indigenous trees, each guest room has views over flood plains that can teem with game. Mombo provides some of the most luxurious accommodations on the continent yet manages not to spoil the sense of wilderness, which makes safari in areas like this so special.

Meno a Kwena sits in an amazing location on the Boteti River overlooking the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The wildlife you’ll see lives within the green and juicy Okavango Delta regions, and zebras are residents here for most of the year.

Watch the wildlife at the river below from the comfort of your private veranda; they call it an ‘armchair safari.’ In the dry season, there is no other water around, so the Boteti River becomes a magnet for wildlife.

This safari camp is great value for money and is an excellent choice for families because there’s a natural swimming pool and plenty of nooks and crannies for kids to explore while watching the action at the river below.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

Featured By

Join our mailing list

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Receive news on auctions & our most popular posts. Opt out at any time. See our Privacy Policy for details.

How Wilderness Pulls Off Solo Adventures in the World’s Wildest Places

By Lale Arikoglu and Malavika Bhattacharya

There are certain kinds of trips that even the most intrepid solo traveler can’t pull off on their own. Case in point: a desert drive across one of the most remote and dramatic landscapes on the planet; a safari far out in the bush that requires an expert guide to teach you about the earth’s most powerful—and fragile—ecosystems; or a mountain trek into the deepest parts of the forest in search of families of gorillas. These are itineraries that call for not just experts, but locals who possess a deep understanding of the land, the nature, and the communities that bring a travel experience to life.

That’s where Wilderness comes in. With over 60 luxury safari camps scattered across eight African countries, including Botswana, Rwanda, and Namibia, Wilderness tailor-makes itineraries for every type of traveler—especially key when you’re flying solo and navigating complicated travel schedules or looking to fill any downtime in rewarding and thoughtful ways. But perhaps most essentially, each Wilderness camp is a full immersion in the place it calls home, thanks to its commitment to conservation and sustainability: Each person a traveler encounters has something to teach you about their land, and the way they live on it, and how the camps operate with the responsibility and understanding that they are the custodians of many of the world’s last truly wild areas.

Earlier this year, Lale Arikoglu, articles director at Condé Nast Traveler and host of the Women Who Travel podcast, and Malavika Bhattacharya, digital editor at Condé Nast Traveller India , embarked on their own solo trips with Wilderness: Lale traveled to Wilderness Serra Cafema , in Namibia, and Wilderness Mombo , in Botswana; and Malavika traveled to Wilderness Bisate , in Rwanda.

Keep reading to follow along with Lale and Malavika’s journeys—and get plenty of inspiration for planning your own solo adventure.

Malavika Bhattacharya at Wilderness Bisate, in Rwanda.

Lale's Journey: Wilderness Serra Cafema, Namibia

As a travel editor, I’ve earned my chops traveling solo to some pretty far-flung places in search of a story, everywhere from hiking trails across Patagonia to sailing down the Amazon River, with many places in between. But little could have prepared me for the exhilarating sense of isolation of the Namibian desert, where the ground turns from shades of ochre to pink and red, seemingly endless sand dunes melt into one another under the burning sun, and, come nightfall, shooting stars dart across an uninterrupted, ink-colored sky.

Even the journey to Wilderness Serra Cafema, where I would spend the next few nights, was an odyssey that felt ripped from an adventure novel, flying in a 10-seater propeller plane over empty, mountainous terrain until landing on an isolated desert airstrip that would have looked just as at home on Mars. It was an exhilarating experience, and one that I couldn’t have executed without the support of Wilderness, which after implementing every stage of my travel itinerary then arranged for my guide, Stanley, to drive me another two spectacular hours through the desert to Serra Cafema, which sits along the Kunene River in Hartmann Valley—one of the most remote locations on the planet.

Why had I chosen to travel so far alone? In search of quietude, but also a greater connection to nature than the one I have in my daily life in New York City—something that Stanley, who grew up in this part of Namibia as a member of the Himba community, is an expert in. Over the course of my trip, he taught me about the desert flora and fauna and its uses (like how the tiny succulents hidden behind rocks collect precious condensation and rainwater), the wildlife that lives in and around the river, as well as the way it sustains the creatures that can survive here, and introduced me to the ways in which human beings still find ways to live in such beautiful yet brutal conditions.

One afternoon, Stanley takes me out on a skiff boat in search of crocodiles: We spot several babies bobbing in the water, and later, an adult one basking in the sun. He tells me of being warned not to swim in the river during his childhood—out of fear of these predators—and it’s another reminder of Stanley’s deep roots in the place I’m visiting, something that Wilderness prioritizes with all of its guides as a means to ensure in- depth knowledge as well as investment back into the local community.

It’s also why I was able to visit the Himba, Namibia’s last semi-nomads, whose villages punctuate the landscape surrounding Serra Cafema. Early in the morning, Stanley drives me through the pin-drop silent desert, stopping momentarily for us to take in the view of neighboring Angola from a clifftop, until we reach a group of Himba women, led by the village matriarch, Crocodile. With Stanley as my translator, they take me into their home and apply perfume made from Namibian red clay to my cheeks and neck, and explain to me the ways that they don’t just coexist with nature, but integrate it into every part of their lives. Even the stars, Crocodile tells me, have their purpose, allowing them to find their way through the desert at night, often using Venus rising as a compass. It’s a truly unforgettable moment, not just because of where we are, but the ways in which, perhaps especially while traveling solo, the best parts of a trip are often about forging new relationships with women in the place I’m getting to know. Now, whenever I look up at Venus, I can’t help but think of the extraordinary Himba women who are looking at it too.

Namibia awaits. Explore our curated itinerary, Desert Exploration, to discover the wonders of Serra Cafema and beyond.

Lale's journey: wilderness mombo, botswana.

When solo travel comes to mind, safari is likely not the first trip you think of. And yet, it’s a perfect structure for any woman choosing to go it alone: There’s a strict itinerary, a perfect balance of adventure and downtime, the company of knowledgeable guides, and, if you feel like it, fellow travelers during game drives and at sundowners. For me, the draw was an opportunity to disconnect from my life in New York City in the hopes that I’d be reminded that I’m part of something much bigger than myself—and why Wilderness Mombo, Wilderness’s flagship camp situated on Botswana’s magnificent Okavango Delta, was the right place to travel.

Landing via propeller plane onto the Okavango Delta is a spectacular immersion into one of the best game-viewing locations on earth—even from the air I spotted herds of elephants roaming across the grasslands. Once on the ground, I’m met by my Wilderness guide, Ant, who is a born-and-bred Botswana and possesses an in-depth knowledge of the country’s wildlife, as well as a deep respect for it. We drive past families of giraffes, troupes of baboons, and a pair of leopards snoozing under a tree before arriving at the camp at sunset, just in time to catch a pack of hyenas racing past the daily sundowner on the tail of some chase. Over the coming days I’d learn that this wasn’t an unusual sight: One of the qualities that sets Mombo apart as a safari camp is its proximity to the wildlife—there are no fences or walls, meaning everything from buffalo to warthogs to bushbucks roam freely among the tents day and night. Elephants are known to walk up to the pool for a drink.

Life at Mombo means falling quickly into the rhythm of the Okavango. Mornings start early with a 5 a.m. wake-up call, followed by a day of game drives. Spending so much time with Ant is a crash course in our planet’s ecosystems. We sit in the sun and watch a pride of lions assess, and then hunt, a lone water buffalo in dramatic fashion; gaze at baby giraffes searching for their mothers; witness a bloat of hippos submerge and reappear in a pool of water that will soon grow many times in size, as the Okavango begins its seasonal flood.

But what is most striking to me, and rewarding, is the way in which being in the heart of the wilderness contributes to my well-being. Wellness can take many forms, and as a solo traveler that often means finding the ways to be present in the place that you’ve traveled to, without any distractions. For me, that meant moments like sitting quietly with Ant as he scanned the horizon with his binoculars, or tuning my ears to the beat of impalas running. At Mombo, I found myself with a rare opportunity to disconnect—and remember that I’m part of a much bigger picture.

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Botswana with our curated itinerary, Okavango Delta Discovery, offering a journey into the magic that awaits amidst the untamed splendor of the wild.

Malavika's journey: wilderness bisate, rwanda.

As a solo woman traveling to Rwanda for the first time, I was so happy to be greeted by my fabulous Wilderness guide, Dalida, at Kigali International Airport. I always believe that women connect with other women wherever they are in the world. Chatting with Dalida about her life in Kigali, the change her country has seen in the last 30 years, and the exciting adventures that lay ahead in my journey, was just like talking to a friend.

As someone who is deeply passionate about wildlife, the reason I was in Rwanda was to meet the mountain gorillas in one of their last remaining homes in the remote Virunga Mountains. This, for me, was the journey of a lifetime, but also one that is fairly complex to plan.

I’ve been on many walking expeditions in the wild to track snakes, apes, and crocodiles. Inevitably, there are challenges in planning travel in remote areas, coordinating with local stakeholders, last-minute weather and itinerary changes, and navigating difficult terrain on foot. It’s also important to me to be mindful of how my travel impacts the local community and ecology.

For wildlife enthusiasts, I’d also recommend a visit to the savannah at Akagera National Park for the full experience of Rwanda’s wildlife, where Wilderness Magashi is the perfect base for this expedition.

For my gorilla trekking experience, Wilderness was the obvious choice to execute an exceptional journey like this in the most seamless, safe, and enjoyable way—and also one that is deeply in sync with the region.

From Kigali, I arrived at the luxurious, award-winning rainforest lodge at Bisate to a cocoon of comfort on the edge of the Volcanoes National Park. Six chic villas are tucked into the mountainside, with cozy fireplaces and balconies that open into the tree canopy.

Often, luxury lodges in remote areas can feel disconnected from the land they occupy. This is not the case at Bisate. Every effort has been made to retain the natural character of the landscape in the design and ethos of the property. The mossy paths are paved with dark volcanic rocks, the menu heavily features the local staple Kinigi potatoes and an array of local produce such as avocados, artichokes, plantains and papayas, and lush native trees form a dense forest cover.

Agriculture is the main industry here and there’s vast farmland surrounding the lodge. On my first morning at Bisate, I met Jimmy, a knowledgeable and extremely passionate local who is now lead agronomist at Bisate. It’s hard to believe when he tells me that this wild, forested patch we’re walking through was also farmland until very recently. Wilderness’s remarkable reforestation program began even before the lodge was constructed. Every member of the team here is deeply committed to the cause they stand for: to bring back indigenous flora like African redwoods, forest primrose, and Dombeya, while also removing invasive introduced species like eucalyptus, which is abundant in the area. There is an ongoing effort to expand the boundaries of the Volcanoes National Park, which means that the forest may extend to envelop the land the lodge stands on today. It is with this future in mind that native trees that wild species depend on have been reintroduced. In eight short years, these glorious African redwoods have grown towards the sky, and flowering plants that are the favored food sources of primates have thrived. As the trees have returned to Bisate, so have the golden monkeys and African Pittas.

Understanding the habitat and interacting with staff from the local community were real highlights of my experience in Rwanda. When I set out for the gorilla trek the next day, I felt I had much more perspective on the place, the people, and even the history of human-wildlife conflict in these parts. On the morning of the trek, I was admittedly nervous. We were to trek at a high altitude of 2500-4500 meters, in unpredictable weather conditions and challenging terrain that held the true promise of a rainforest adventure, fire ants and all. Before I knew what I needed to brave this bucket-list adventure, Wilderness Bisate did. They kitted me out in appropriate hiking gear: gaiters, a poncho in case of rain, even a daypack with snacks and water. The camp also organized the permits needed for gorilla trekking and drove us all the way to the edges of the rainforest, where we met our guides.

Nothing in the world can prepare you for when you finally come face-to-face with a magnificent silverback. Watching baby mountain gorillas perform circus acts on the trees, seeing a gorilla family just hang out eating bamboo and mushrooms, and enjoy some quality time together—there’s something so familiar and yet so spectacular about it all. Conservation of this key species begins with conservation of the ecosystem they inhabit, and to that end Wilderness is deeply committed to the cause.

I came away feeling privileged to have experienced this country in a way that was mindful and immersive. A tourism model can only be a success if it involves the local community. At Wilderness Bisate, meeting the staff from surrounding areas and hearing their stories of growth within the Wilderness family was so inspiring: whether it is JP who started out in security and is now assistant lodge manager; Jimmy who began as a construction worker at the lodge and is now lead agronomist; or Ben, who came back to his fatherland from the Democratic Republic of Congo 27 years ago and is now F&B manager. Rwanda’s difficult past has only strengthened the determination of locals like them to see their country succeed. They are the keepers of the stories of this land, the ones who have seen it transform, and the ones who will feel firsthand the effects of any change—positive or negative. To experience their hospitality and hear their stories is to experience a slice of Rwanda from the people who know it best and care about it the most. What could be more special?

Explore Rwanda's beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and remarkable wildlife through our curated itinerary, Savannah Safari & Gorilla Trekking, guaranteeing a trip of a lifetime.

There are many adventures to be had on the African continent, but few truly take you to the edge of your imagination. Lale and Malavika’s journeys into some of the earth’s most remote wilderness areas were filled with spectacular landscapes and custom-designed activities. But what made these once-in-a-lifetime trips was the impactful, immersive approach that Wilderness brought in. Every experience along the way was meaningful and rooted in the land, whether it was interacting with the last of the semi-nomadic Himba community in Namibia or tracking Rwanda’s once-endangered mountain gorillas with the community that lives on the edges of the forest. Wilderness’ luxury lodges are spread across some of Africa’s most delicate ecosystems, the last bastions of indigenous flora and fauna and home to the communities that protect them. For solo women travelers, experiencing these destinations seamlessly, sustainably and mindfully is a transformative journey.

• Opinion & Analysis
• Full Picture
• Featured Videos
• Advertise with Us

Botswana voted Africa’s best safari country of 2024

MAUN: In the second consecutive year, Botswana has once again won the crown for the best safari country in Africa in 2024. In a report released on Tuesday (June 18), Botswana beat many African contenders in the safari sector.

This is the fourth time Botswana has won, consolidating its prized number one position among African safari countries. Following close behind Botswana was Tanzania at second place and Namibia taking up the third spot. Uganda, being host to more than 1, 000 bird species, won the important birding category. The grading was done by The Netherlands-based SafariBookings.com, which is the largest online market for African safari tours. The organisation undertook a detailed study of almost 3, 600 reviews, completed by both safari-goers and African travel experts.

The annual survey looks at a range of categories, from wildlife viewing and birding to bush atmosphere and scenic value. In a statement, SafariBookings.com noted that “Botswana does safari travel very well indeed. Much of the country is genuine wilderness. It incorporates the Okavango Delta, a massive waterway packed with wildlife including African’s largest elephant population, and the Kalahari Desert, where black-maned lions rule over enormous sand plains. Whether you are driving out into the wilderness or flying into a luxury camp, Botswana is the best place for safari travel.” It further explained that the reviews used in the analysis consisted of 2, 419 user review gathered by SafariBookings.com between January 1, 2002 and April 10, 2024 and 1, 174 reviews written by 26 reputable guidebook authors who work for a variety of publishers including Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, Frommer’s, Bradt Guides and Footprint.

Already have an active account? Log in here .

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Drug prevalence in schools worries Police

Casting the tourism net wider, the bahamas open for tourism, bfa constitution could be declared null and void, calls for transparency grow ahead of polls, zebras target victory over eswatini, ntshingane, babitseng to contest for bfa presidency, will the synthetics hype die off, serowe police investigate shebeen murder, “if i knew, i wouldn’t have tried” – a billionaire’s tribulations.

Women in Politics caucus NGO, a welcome development

In the 2014 General Election, women who stood for parliamentary elections were a mere 17 out of a total of 192 aspirants, and sadly the number dropped to 11 out of 210 parliamentary aspirants in the 2019 General Election. Hopefully, registration of the Women in Politics Caucus will give women the necessary support to join politics. While things were slowly improving, women for a long time were at the receiving end as compared to their male...

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.

• Advertise with us

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Packing Lists

The Ultimate Safari Packing List

All the gear, accessories, and clothing that’s fit to pack for the perfect safari adventure.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

• Packing Checklist
• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Kevin Liang

My first-ever safari was a three-day budget camping safari in Kruger National Park run by a hostel. I shared a small 5x5 tent with a friend. Since then, I’ve taken over 150 safaris, running the gamut from bare-bones camping to luxury lodges. I’ve gone from being underprepared to being over-prepared to knowing what safari essentials you should pack no matter where you’re headed or what type of safari experience you’ve booked.

To double-check my checklist, I also reached out to Koen Pretorius, a local safari guide in South Africa, for his expert input on what travelers should pack for a safari. Although his company, Tsala Trails, focuses on luxury walking safaris, his packing suggestions apply to all types of safaris.

For the most part, the products on this list are all items I’ve used (or wish I had), have seen other people use, or were recommended by our expert guide, who reminds you to “prepare for the worst, but go with the flow and enjoy” once you arrive.

Packing Checklist for a Safari

Whether you’re heading out on a walking safari, staying in a basic tented camp, or checking into a luxury lodge, these are the items you’ll want to make sure make it into your bag.

• Best Camera: Nikon Z50 Mirrorless Camera Two Lens Kit
• Best Binoculars: Zeiss 10x42 Terra ED Binoculars
• Best Sunscreen: Thinksport Kid’s Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Best Bug Spray: Off! Familycare Smooth & Dry Aerosole Personal Repellents and Bug Spray
• Best Travel Adapter: Vintar Universal Travel Adaptor Kit
• Best Water Bottle: Brita Stainless Steel Premium Filtering Water Bottle
• Best First-aid Kit: Adventure Store Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit  

Luggage and Accessories

• Best Suitcase: Osprey Sojourn Shuttle Bag
• Best Day Pack: Deuter Speed Lite 21 Pack
• Best Sunglasses for Men: Knockaround Premiums Sport Sunglasses
• Best Sunglasses for Women: Smith Caper 53mm ChromaPop Polarized Square Sunglasses
• Best Sun Hat: Tilly LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Sun Hat
• Best Travel Pill Organizer: Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer

Shoes and Apparel

• Best Sun Shirt: Uniqlo Airism Mesh UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie
• Best Insulating Layer: Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket
• Best Waterproof Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants
• Best Walking Shoes: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best Sandals: Teva Original Universal Sandal

The most important things you’ll pack for your safari aren’t clothing items, but your gear. I’ve included the essential items for most safaris here, but your exact needs will depend on your particular safari destination and the type of safari you’ll be embarking on (camping, walking, or luxury excursions will require different types of gear). Pretorius also says that no matter what type of safari you’re on, small travel towels can come in handy to clean your face from dirt, dust, sweat, or sunscreen. For anyone planning on using their phone to take pictures and videos, packing a portable power bank (like this fast-charging option ) will help make sure you don’t run out of juice and get you powered back up quickly so you don’t miss too many photo ops.

Best Camera

Nikon z50 mirrorless camera two lens kit.

For those who don’t want to rely on their smartphone, which can lose power, overheat, or glitch while on a safari, a handheld camera is a must. Pretorius suggests going for a mirrorless model. I agree and recommend the Nikon Z30 Mirrorless Camera with Two Lens Kit. Mirrorless cameras are much more lightweight than DSLRs and tend to have a faster shooting reaction speed that can make or break a wildlife shot. This Nikon Z50 has 20.9 megapixels, shoots 4K video, and comes with both a 16-50mm that’s good for portraits and a 50-250mm zoom lens that is perfect for wildlife safaris (and the maximum you’ll probably be able to shoot without the image becoming unstable). It can also shoot at a pushed 204800 ISO, which basically means it’s also great for night shots.

Best Binoculars

Zeiss 10x42 terra ed binoculars.

Binoculars are technically optional for a safari, but what’s the point of going on a bucket list trip experience and squinting to see the wildlife? That said, binoculars can be expensive, so you want to make sure to get the best bang for your buck. Pretorius suggests looking for binoculars with good quality lenses that are lightweight and durable with a strength of at least 8x32, 10x28, or 10x32. Our top pick are the Zeiss 10x42 Terra ED Binoculars, which are just over 1.5 pounds and compact. Zeiss glass is considered premium quality, and the 10x42 specs give you both a good depth of field and a steady view. Their weatherproof design keeps them working in temperatures ranging from 24-140 degrees, but they also have a waterproof body, so you don’t have to worry about ruining them if they get wet.

Best Sunscreen

Thinksport kid’s safe sunscreen spf 50+.

While many people remember to pack sunscreen for their safari, they often don’t think twice about how eco-friendly it will be since safaris are primarily a land-based activity. It’s still important to wear eco-friendly sunscreen like Thinksport since any residue will be washed off your body in the shower and eventually absorbed in the ground in the bush. I am a loyal Thinksport fan because their eco-friendly mineral sunscreens have broad-spectrum UV protection, don’t go on greasy (be sure to shake it before applying), and have a minimal white cast. The Kids’ formula is also non-toxic, biodegradable, unscented, and suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, it’s water-resistant and will last for 80 minutes.

Best Bug Spray

Off familycare smooth & dry aerosole personal repellents and bug spray.

Bug spray is available in most safari destinations, but the options may be limited. Bring your own to be safe. I recommend the Smooth and Dry version of Off! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellant. It comes in a convenient four-ounce size that is sure to last for your entire trip, but won’t take up unnecessary room in your day pack. This aerosol formula makes application effortless and even, and it dries without any sticky or greasy residue — there’s nothing worse than sitting in the heat and feeling like you have a coat of chemicals on you. It’s also unscented, which is ideal for heading into wildlife territory. The 15 percent DEET formulation covers a range of insects, from mosquitos to gnats and ticks. It can also safely be sprayed on clothes.

Best Travel Adapter

Vintar universal travel adaptor kit.

The Vintar Universal Travel Adaptor Kit is an essential buy that you can reuse for subsequent trips abroad. Not only is this adaptor beloved and well-priced, but it also stands out because it actually contains a plug adaptor configuration for South Africa. South Africa has a unique plug that is usually only available as its own clunky, pricey plug. I also love the streamlined design of this adaptor unit compared to other units and the fact that it has two two-prong plugs, two 5-volt USB-C ports, and one 5-volt USB-A port built right in.

Best Water Bottle

Brita stainless steel premium filtering water bottle.

While most lodges and safari companies will offer water bottles , Pretorius recommends bringing your own reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between game drives and walks, and during transfers and travel. I recommend the Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle because many lodges and camps in Africa use rainwater for drinking water, and while it is safe to drink, it may taste differently than you’re used to. This bottle has a replaceable carbon filter that helps to improve water taste and odor. It can also remove particulates in the water, but note that it is not a purifier. The stainless steel insulation will keep contents cool or warm for up to 24 hours, and the straw is ideal for taking sips inside a bumpy vehicle without spilling. One filter lasts up to two months or 40 gallons of water and replaces up to 300 plastic bottles of water.

Best First-aid Kit

Adventure medical kit ultralight watertight .5.

Any reputable safari operator or lodge will have a first-aid kit , but I still recommend packing this Adventure Medical Kit for peace of mind. It has all your essential medical needs covered, including an assortment of bandages and wound dressings, single doses of various generic pain and allergy medications, a splinter remover that can also remove ticks, and a collection of blister covers. Everything comes in a compact, double-layer waterproof bag that will easily fit into your day pack without taking up too much room. I particularly like having this on hand because it offers a quick way to deal with minor ailments on your own, using products you’re familiar with, and doesn’t require you to hunt down the lodge manager or interrupt the safari.

Best Luggage and Accessories

Your exact accessories and luggage needs will again vary depending on your specific trip, but I’ve compiled a basic list of items that function as universal needs. Regarding walking tours, Pretorius says a walking stick is a great addition, but only if you know you’ll use it. On the flip side, he says you’ll definitely want to pack a pair of ankle gaiters to strap onto your shoes to protect your lower legs and ankles from dirt, mud, debris, and errant branches or rocks.

Best Suitcase

Osprey sojourn shuttle bag 30 inch.

This eco-friendly, water-resistant wheeled duffel from Osprey ticks so many boxes, even ones you didn’t know you needed. On a basic level, it has a 108-liter capacity, several interior zippered organization pockets, a retractable handle, and is constructed with tough Bluesign-approved nylon. But the beauty of this bag is in the details. The duffel’s compression straps allow the bag to conform and snugly hold several different capacity levels — meaning you can pack it partially full, leaving room for souvenirs. Exterior storage includes a waterproof shoe compartment (key for muddy or dusty after-safari shoes) and a top easy-access compartment for toiletry bags or dirty clothes. It also has an extra-wide wheelbase and oversized 110mm wheels that maneuver beautifully over multiple surfaces, including rough terrain.

Best Day Pack

Deuter speed lite 21 pack.

Day packs are necessary for keeping your essentials with you while out on game drives or bush walks. The Deuter Speed Lite 21L Pack is made from 100 percent recycled materials and goes hard on the features while maintaining a simple and slim profile. Hikers and walkers will appreciate the bag’s minimal 15-ounce weight, padded and lined mesh backing, weight-balancing sternum and waist strap, and the side compression straps that help to prevent wobbling. You’ll get a side water bottle pocket (or you can slide a water bladder into the back sleeve and utilize the built-in hydration port and tube routing), a zippered top easy-access pocket, and accessory loops where you can thread things like your sunglasses. We also love that it’s made with Bluesign recycled materials.

Best Sunglasses for Men

Knockaround premiums sport sunglasses.

When it comes to sunglasses, Pretorius says you should pack a pair with polarized lenses and UVA and UVB protection to help protect your eyes while out on safari. These Knockaround Premiums Sport Sunglasses have a wide rectangular shape that will complement a variety of face shapes while also providing good coverage. These sunglasses are made from a strong but lightweight polycarbonate material and have comfortable nose cushions for those long outings. In particular, the polarized lenses are FDA-approved for their excellent impact resistance. They’re only available in one color and one size, but luckily it’s black and a size with a near-universal fit. These sunnies are also affordably priced, so you can leave your expensive sunglasses at home.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Smith caper sunglasses with chromapop.

These classically shaped square sunglasses offer 100 percent UV protection and the benefits of polarized lenses, plus a little extra that makes them a great safari pick. They have a proprietary ChromaPop component that enhances the view by further reducing glare and filtering out certain light wavelengths, resulting in superior clarity and natural color matching. Plus, they come in three color options, so you can find the pair that’s perfect for your look. Polymer materials makes them durable, and anti-slip nose cushions help keep them comfortable (and on your face during those windy game drives). They are an investment, however, so you might want to pick up a hard sided glasses case for storage.

Best Sun Hat

Tilley ltm6 airflo broad brim hat.

Pretorius says to stick with a brimmed hat since it will help keep your neck and shoulders protected from the sun, and he recommends investing in a hat from Tilly, the brand he himself uses. I like their LTM6 Airflo Sun Hat because it has the second-widest brim in the collection, comes in safari-friendly colors, and is made of Bluesign recycled materials. Where it shines, though, is its UPF 50+ sun protection rating and cooling mesh band around the crown that allows air to flow through (somehow while staying water-repelling). I love that it packs down flat and has the all-too-important adjustable wind strap, so it will stay in place in windy conditions. Oh, and Tilly guarantees all their hats for life.

Best Travel Pill Organizer

Auvon weekly pill organizer.

Use this travel pill organizer to pack your daily anti-malarial meds, regular prescriptions and supplements, or to ensure you have a stash of your trusted over-the-counter allergy or pain medicines. What I love about this seven-day pill organizer is that each day’s container can be removed separately and easily slipped into your pocket or day pack, giving you access to your daily dosage without having to cart around the entire case. Plus, the containers have a large capacity that can fit several larger-sized pills, and each day is a different color, a boon for visual folks like me. You’ll also get a water-resistant case with an easy-grab handle, and an interior pocket where you can store printed copies of your prescriptions (especially essential for any controlled prescriptions).

Best Shoes and Apparel

When it comes to clothing, Pretorius suggests leaning into performance tech items that are lightweight, breathable, and offer sun and water protection when possible. He says that waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket are “game-changers” during the rainy season since they fold up small and can make or break your experience in cold and rainy weather. For winter safaris, he warns that it can get cold and recommends packing a warming beanie and a pair of insulated gloves . These can also come in handy for early morning or nighttime game drives or walks during the shoulder season. The biggest tip is to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate from day to night and even throughout the day.

Best Sun Shirt

Uniqlo airism mesh uv protection full-zip hoodie.

Whether you’re walking or in a vehicle, be sure to pack at least one top that has UPF protection. UPF protection is like built-in sunscreen and the UPF number refers to the percentage of UV rays the fabric blocks. According to Pretorius, you should aim for easy-to-care-for materials such as polyester, cotton, or blends. Uniqlo’s recycled polyester-spandex Airism Mesh UV Protection Full Zip Hoodie provides a removable full-coverage layer that’s lightweight and breathable enough to wear in high temps without overheating. I love that it has hand pockets and thumbholes, too, so you can protect your hands as well. It also packs down into its own pocket, making it a cinch to toss into your day pack.

Best Insulating Layer

Patagonia better sweater fleece jacket.

An insulating layer is a must for keeping you cozy during morning or night walks, chilly nights in a tent , or during early or evening game drives. It’s amazing how quickly it can go from warm to chilly (or even freezing) when you’re zooming through the park in an open-air vehicle. I never got in the vehicle without my Patagonia fleece, a men’s version hand-me-down from a ranger friend after I failed to pack my own. I like this style in particular because it has a contoured cut that is easy to layer and features a full zipper that doesn’t require you to pull it over your head. The zippered hand pockets and sleeve stash pocket are also key for keeping items secure during bumpy rides or long hikes (they also help keep out sneaky bugs). Plus, it’s made from recycled material and is Fair Trade-certified.

Best Waterproof Pants

Rei co-op sahara convertible pants.

Waterproof and rainproof pants are essential for Safaris. Pretorius notes that they can help to keep your safari experience comfortable and pleasant in cold or inclement weather. These REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants ( also available for men ) are made from recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, and have a special water-repellent coating that causes water to bead on contact. The cargo-style design includes six storage pockets to securely carry any essentials, and the drawstring elastic waist allows you to customize the fit for maximum comfort. The pants are lightweight and breathable but also feature vertical ankle zippers for extra airflow — or you can simply zip off the lower portion of the pants below the knee to convert them into shorts.

Best Walking Shoes

Merrell moab 3 mid waterproof hiking boots.

A durable and comfortable pair of sneakers is a must, even if you’re spending the majority of your time in a vehicle (you’ll likely have the chance to get out of the vehicle a few times to walk around or do a short bush walk). Heading out on a walking safari or staying in a ground-level tented camp? They’re a necessity. These Merrell Moab 3 Mid all-terrain boots get the job done by providing a supportive but comfortable fit with contoured footbeds, excellent shock absorption, high-traction soles, and outer heel and toe protection.

They’re also waterproof, which comes in handy for water crossings or downpours, and this mid-rise version has extra ankle support — highly recommended by Pretorius — for uneven ground and tiring trails. Several neutral colorways also mean you can pick the right combo for you while still blending into the bush.

Best Sandals

Teva women's original universal sandals.

Pretorius recommends packing a pair of sandals . While he is comfortable wearing flip-flops, I prefer a sturdier sandal like the Teva Original Universal. It’s a bit more rugged, with stabilizing traction in the sole and an adjustable heel strap to prevent them from sliding off. These sandals are also top-notch performers in wet conditions and have a molded sole with heel cushioning and arch support for long-wear comfort. Fitting with the theme of most of the items on this list, they are also made from recycled materials. Another bonus? They have an accessible price point, and there are a whopping 43 colors and patterns to choose from in women’s sizes and over 50 options in men’s sizes .

What to Know Before You Go on Safari

Avoid camouflage clothing.

If you’re visiting countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, and Uganda (to name a few), you’ll need to avoid packing anything with a camouflage design. In these countries, it is illegal for anyone outside of official law and military personnel to wear camouflage.

Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medications

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It is present in some safari destinations, but not all. For example, all game reserves in South Africa's Eastern Cape are in malaria-free zones, but malaria is still a risk in other provinces, including Mpumalanga, which is home to Kruger National Park. Likewise, popular safari countries like Tanzania and Kenya are high-risk malaria zones.

Get in touch with your doctor or local travel clinic several months before your trip to discuss antimalarial options, as some medicines require you to start taking them several weeks before you arrive — and/or several weeks after. It’s also a good idea to ask if your destination requires any vaccinations for entry. Many countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination, while Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations are recommended prior to travel.

Prepare for the weather

Within the four global seasons of summer, spring, fall, and winter, you should pay attention to whether your visit coincides with the wet or dry season. In South Africa, the dry season is roughly between May and September, and the wet season is October through April with rains starting in November, Pretorius says.

“There is essentially no rain during the winter months,” he adds, which can make “spotting wildlife easier as the vegetation is less dense and the animals tend to stay around permanent water sources. Summer months are hot and humid, and storms can occur frequently, but rarely last very long. Rainy season means the return of migratory birds, and numerous antelope species also give birth during this time of year.”

Keep in mind, the majority of safari destinations are located below the equator in the southern hemisphere. Pretorius is quick to remind safari-goers that the winter and summer seasons occur at opposite times compared to locations above the equator. If you book a safari in most destinations during the months of June, July, and August, you’ll be hitting winter, not summer, and vice versa.

Everyone’s safari needs will differ, but check with your safari provider about what types of items will be available for free or to rent onsite so you don’t pack unnecessary items. For example, many providers offer simple ponchos during the rainy season but rarely offer waterproof pants. Focusing on the necessities will help keep your costs down, luggage lighter, and avoid product waste. Plus, you’ll have more room for souvenirs!

Additionally, avoid single-use and plastic products and instead try to stick to eco-friendly options when possible. Many lodges and camps operate with eco-friendly practices, and following suit during a safari is one way to be respectful of the natural areas, people, and wildlife you’ve come to see. Thin, plastic bags have also been banned in countries like Uganda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Kenya, making eco-friendly materials a must.

A soft-sided rolling duffel is the best luggage to bring on safari, particularly if part of your travels include a smaller airline or will take place on a smaller plane. Many smaller aircrafts and smaller airlines in African countries require soft-sided luggage. The last thing you’ll want to do after a long flight is purchase a new piece of luggage and repack before being let onto your intra-country flight. Since size, weight, shape, and luggage types can vary vastly between airlines, it’s a good idea to do research beforehand to make sure your luggage meets all restrictions.

Pretorius says to avoid “anything red, orange, yellow, fluorescent, and even white” since predators often associate these colors with prey. You want to blend in as much as possible with your surroundings, which is why natural, neutral-colors are best for safaris. This is even more important for walking safaris or camping as you’ll actually be on the ground. "Think earthy tones, like khaki, brown, beige, and even navy blue” when choosing your safari packing palette, Pretorius adds.

If you’re in a self-contained lodge, you can wear pretty much whatever you’d like while on the property. Just be sure to dress for the weather and remember that even luxury safari lodges have a fairly casual vibe (a.k.a you won’t need any formal or business attire).

When in doubt, opt for lightweight clothing that offers protection from the elements and environment — breathable, water-resistant/waterproof, and UPF fabrics in layers.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

K. Alex Beaven has had over 150 safari experiences, including budget camping, bush walks, game drives, river cruises, and luxury lodges in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, Alex spent several months living onsite at two game reserves in the Eastern Cape, creating content for their conservation volunteer programs. She also interviewed Koen Pretorius, owner and guide at Tsala Trails , a safari company that offers all-inclusive walking safaris in Big 5 game reserves across South Africa, to get his best advice about preparing and packing for a safari.

Related Articles