By a coincidence of geography and geology, Botswana has within its boundaries one of the world's great inland waterways, the Okavango Delta. The Okavango River drains water from the Angola highlands into a depression or trough which collects in a delta spreading over 10000 square kilometres. This is a happy accident because this area would otherwise be an arid desert-like much of the surrounding area.
It is also a happy accident for all the wildlife, providing the life-giving element of water and concentrating vast herds of game. All this happiness extends to the safari tourist who has the privilege and pleasure of seeing all these animals in a sublime and unique setting of water, islands, and savannah. For this safari visitor, there are many fantastic and luxurious camps to accommodate them. Abu, Vumbura and Eagle Island camps are synonymous with the best safari accommodation available.
There is another way of seeing the Okavango, perhaps a more natural way which is closer to nature and a greater wilderness experience; mobile camping has been established in this area for decades. The great advantage is that you have your own personal safari driver and ranger who will stop at any interesting observation point for watching wildlife, or for a picnic or lunch or just to stretch your legs and at the end of the day, you will settle down to an already erected tented camp.
You will there enjoy meals prepared by some of the best safari cooks in the industry. The variety of food that these cooks prepare in a pit oven is truly amazing. Slumming it, you are certainly not. Sleeping in nature on a comfortable bed and mattress with the night stars and animals for company, you will awake with a camp servant bringing you fresh, warm towels and water.
On one memorable occasion, our own Nicky found she couldn't get to sleep as she was too excited by the noise of an elephant with a rumbling stomach who had settled by her tent.
This is the stuff of real safaris. The bonus for me was travelling by mokoro (dugout canoes) through an arm of the waterways and watching the game drink peacefully and in harmony with nature. Many people yearn for adventure yet in our busy urban lives do not have the skills or capacity to do their own camping safari. For them and for many others who just simply want an unhurried and natural safari experience, mobile camping is the answer.
Camping in the Okavango Delta
Pom Pom Camp
Nestled on the enchanting Pom Pom Island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Pom Pom Camp offers an intimate safari experience with just nine luxurious tents. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most idyllic retreats for immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Africa.
The camp’s charm lies not only in its spectacular setting but in the exceptional experiences it offers. Game drives and mokoro safaris are seamlessly woven into each day, offering breathtaking encounters with the Delta’s diverse wildlife.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Chobe Safari Lodge is nestled in a prime location right on the banks of the iconic Chobe River. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, the lodge provides an ideal base for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the region's abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Guests can also enjoy unforgettable boat cruises along the wildlife-rich Chobe River, where sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife make for a truly magical experience.
Hyena Pan
Hyena Pan is an intimate safari camp in Botswana's beautiful Khwai Private Reserve. This exclusive camp offers unparalleled access to the wildlife of the area, including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and wild dog, as well as abundant birdlife.
Guests can enjoy luxurious tented suites with private decks and stunning views over the bushveld.
A variety of activities are available such as morning and afternoon game drives, a ground-level hide alongside the waterhole and wildlife walks with a highly skilled guide.
Families with children over 6 years are welcome and can make the most of this unique experience!
Chobe Marina Lodge
Chobe Marina Lodge with 60 rooms on offer is uniquely located right on the banks of the Chobe River bordering the National Park, a riverboat cruise and sunset tour into the park is undoubtedly a highlight of one's stay here.
This lodge is an excellent choice for safari enthusiasts, whether you're exploring the park's vast landscapes or relaxing by the river, Chobe Marina Lodge offers a memorable stay for those looking to experience the beauty of northern Botswana.
Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu
Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu is a luxury safari lodge situated along the banks of the Limpopo River in the Mashatu Game Reserve and Tuli Block area of Botswana.
It offers guests an exclusive African experience with its luxurious appointed interiors and only eight tented suites - each featuring a private wooden deck and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Guests can relax in the tranquil setting of the lodge and take advantage of its swimming pool, star-gazing deck, hide and walking trails, or explore the nearby wildlife.
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp offers breathtaking views overlooking the iconic Chobe River and its surrounding floodplains, which are teeming with the diverse wildlife and birdlife that make the Chobe National Park so renowned.
Whether you're embarking on thrilling game drives, enjoying the tranquil sunsets, or indulging in the warm hospitality, Chobe Elephant Camp is the ideal destination for an unforgettable African safari in Botswana.
Tawana Camp
Nestled in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, Tawana Camp is a sanctuary of untamed beauty and refined luxury. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and teeming with diverse wildlife, this exclusive retreat offers an authentic safari experience like no other.
Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure an experience of unparalleled comfort and style. Whether you're relaxing in the beautifully appointed spaces or enjoying the attentive care of the exceptional staff, Tawana Camp delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa's natural beauty.
Savute Elephant Lodge
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge has 12 luxurious safari suites on raised wooden decks overlooking the Savuti Channel, one of the most popular lodges in the Chobe National Park that we offer, and for a good reason.
Depending on the flood levels, safari activities at Savute Elephant Lodge include; game drives (morning and afternoon) as well as tours to the nearby rock paintings.