wilderness safaris classic camps botswana

Welcome to Wilderness Mombo Camp

“the place of plenty”.

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Wilderness Mombo Camp

Wilderness mombo camp botswana, okavango delta.

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

Wilderness Little Mombo Camp Botswana, Okavango Delta

Wilderness Little Mombo is the more intimate, sister camp to Wilderness Mombo Camp. World-renowned as “the Place of Plenty,” alongside Wilderness Mombo, Wilderness Little Mombo’s location on Chief’s Island within Moremi Game Reserve attracts an enormous number and variety of animals, making it a hugely sought-after destination.

Wilderness Mombo Camp and Wilderness Little Mombo Rates

Rates for wilderness mombo and wilderness little mombo vary depending on season as below. rates are in $usd per person per night, the wilderness mombo concession.

The Wilderness Mombo Concession, home to Wilderness Mombo, and Wilderness Little Mombo, sits on the North Eastern tip of Chiefs Island inside the Moremi Game Reserve, the centre of the Okavango Delta. Often referred to as the predator capital of Africa, the Wilderness 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.

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

The perfect Delta itinerary

Tick off Victoria Falls in old school luxury, before complimenting your land safari at Wilderness Mombo with the watery Vumbura concession. 

Zimbabwe and Botswana

Laze into the luxury and perfect wilderness on this multi-country itinerary. A trip for true wildlife enthusiasts who are seeking the best of the best.

Place of plenty

Meerkats and Bush

The Makadikgadi starkly contrasts with Delta landscapes. Discover Botswana's extreme variety on this eye opening journey through the wild.

The best of Botswana

Sunset boat cruises and action packed game drive. A classic Botswana itinerary for the best wildlife in the country, all enjoyed in world class luxury.

The Ultimate Botswana safari

Combine the most luxurious lodges in the country all in Botswana's flagship wildlife viewing areas and you have yourself an unbeatable safari itinerary. 

How to get to Wilderness Mombo

• Find Your Dream Adventure
• Customized Travel
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• Photography
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• City Touring
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• Food & Wine
• Last Minute
• South Africa
• East Africa Combo
• Southern Africa Combo
• Republic of the Congo

Botswana 12 Day | Botswana Wilderness Wing Safari – Classic Camps

12 Day | Botswana Wilderness Wing Safari – Classic Camps

Itinerary description.

An incredible seven night flying safari in Botswana, which offers a great value! Visit three distinct regions of Botswana with several options of classic Camps in each park area. Photographic activities with resident camp guides. Begin your adventure with an overnight in Victoria Falls at the Ilala Lodge. 

Let Us Plan a  Custom Trip for You

Day by day itinerary, usa/johannesburg.

On arrival you will be met and escorted to your vehicle, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight African Rock Hotel .

Victoria Falls

Take the complimentary hotel transfer back to the airport for your scheduled inter-Africa flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.  This afternoon you will enjoy a tour of Victoria Falls. You are accompanied by an experienced guide, who after a brief history and explanation of the Falls escorts you through the winding paths pointing out and elaborating on points of interest. You are also given information on the plants, birds and other wildlife that you come across. Time permitting, additional touring can be arranged (costs apply). Overnight Ilala Lodge or Stanley & Livingstone .

Linyanti Reserve

This morning you will be transferred across the border to Kasane, Botswana.  On arrival you will be met by your pilot and board the aircraft for your scheduled charter flight to your first safari camp located in the Linyanti Reserve, midway between Chobe and the Okavango Delta. Enjoy morning and afternoon activities from your camp. 2 nights Savuti Camp or DumaTau Camp .

Okavango Delta

Leave as the sun comes over the horizon and enjoy an early morning game drive. Depart on your scheduled charter flight to your next camp within the Okavango Delta. Activities are diverse and allow time on the water (subject to water levels), on land and occasionally on foot. Day and night game drives are conducted in open 4×4 vehicles. Enjoy a full day of game viewing. 2 nights Kwetsani Camp , Tubu Tree Camp , Little Tubu , Little Vumbura or Qorokwe Camp .

Periphery of Moremi Reserve

Enjoy an early morning game drive.  Following brunch in camp, depart on your scheduled charter flight to your next camp on the periphery of the Moremi Reserve. Enjoy two full days of game viewing activities. 3 nights Chitabe Lediba or Chitabe Camp .

Moremi/Maun/Johannesburg/USA

Depart on your scheduled charter flight to Maun. Connect with the scheduled inter-Africa flight to Johannesburg. Continue onward overnight to the USA. Welcome home!

Safari Pricing Details

2024 land arrangements: based on ilala lodge, savuti camp, kwetsani camp and chitabe camp or chitabe lediba.

All rates are per person total sharing a room. Surcharges apply for other featured camps. FREE CHARTER FLIGHTS! Rates reflect 3 complimentary charter flights when you book 6+ nights in Wilderness Safaris camps. This is a savings of $1,175 per person. Ask for details.

Jan 06 - Mar

per person / double

Covering more than 6000 mi², the Okavango Delta is one of the most dynamic and stunning natural places on earth. This inland delta in Botswana is a natural mosaic of palm-fringed

Kwando, Linyanti & Selinda Concessions

Kwando, Linyanti and Selinda Concessions lie between Botswana’s Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. During the dry season, the concentration of elephant here is

“Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in flight”. That’s what David Livingstone wrote in his journal upon seeing Victoria Falls for the first time. One of

Accommodations

Savuti camp.

Savuti Camp overlooks the dried Savute Channel in a private area of the Linyanti concession. The comfortable camp provides accommodation in seven tented rooms with en suite

Jacana Camp

Jacana Camp has five Meru-style tents each built on a wooden deck overlooking the floodplains of the Okavango Delta. The en suite bathroom is enclosed but roofless allowing for

Chitabe Lediba

Chitabe Lediba is located in a concession bordering the Okavango Delta’s Moremi Reserve. The camp consists of five spacious Meru-style tents with en-suite facilities. Each

Ilala Lodge

The Ilala Lodge is a charming lodge under thatch that offers well priced, comfortable accommodations. It’s conveniently situated for both Victoria Falls and the shops and

DumaTau Camp

DumaTau is located on the banks of the Linyanti River in a prime location between two elephant migratory corridors. The ten raised tented suites contain floor to ceiling wraparound

Kwetsani Camp

Located in the Okavango Delta’s Jao Concession, Kwetsani Camp is a ten bedded luxury tented camp raised on stilts beneath the shady canopy, overlooking the expansive

Little Tubu Camp

Little Tubu is an intimate camp in the Jao Concession with just three tents. Each has a small, private deck in front, en suite bathroom and private outdoor shower. The main lounge

Little Vumbura Camp

Little Vumbura sits on an island in the northern Okavango Delta only accessible by boat, making the approach to camp unique and exciting. Water-based activities with mokoros are a

Qorokwe Camp

Qorokwe Camp is located on the 64,900-acre Qorokwe Concession in the south-eastern region of the Okavango Delta. This exclusive region features diverse habitats, from acacia

Chitabe Camp

Chitabe Camp sits in a private concession that borders the Okavango Delta’s Moremi Reserve. Eight elevated, Meru-style guest tents are en suite and each includes a fan,

African Rock

African Rock is an exclusive boutique hotel located 11 kilometers from the Johannesburg International Airport in the quiet suburb of Kempton Park. The interior is a delightful

The Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel

The Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel is the perfect compliment to your safari and the ideal base for exploring Victoria Falls. The luxurious property consists of 16

Tubu Tree Camp

Tubu Tree Camp, in the Jao Concession, is a traditional style tented safari camp built on raised wooden platforms to take best advantage of the beautiful view over the floodplains.

Hear from Our Travelers

It’s all about our clients, always has been.

All our accommodations at the camps were great!

Well Kyle it was an adventure that couldn’t be topped. Each place-Jacana and Chitabe in Botswana and Mana Pools in Zimbabwe were perfect in each individual way. All our accommodations at the camps were great! A little more rustic at Mana...

Alex Nellias

Tubu Tree – What wonderful accommodations. Since it was off-season, for two out of three days it was just us and one other person.

Tubu Tree – What wonderful accommodations. Since it was off-season, for two out of three days it was just us and one other person. The hostess Tonja was very personable, and we enjoyed her company and conversations during mealtimes....

We had an amazing trip. Victoria Falls was beautiful and awe inspiring. Botswana was amazing as well. The people that took care of us were beautiful. The guides were amazing and extremely knowledgeable. My favorite guide was Lazi. He had an...

Hilton Whitworth

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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

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One week Classic Wilderness Safari

A powerful combination of luxury Okavango camps come together to create a superb 7 night itinerary, one of our most popular. Importantly, this itinerary delivers great game viewing and both land and water activities all year round. Following a triangular route through the south, east and west Okavango the magnificent diversity of the delta is experienced. Wonderfully varied game viewing and activities keep every day fresh and exciting. These are some of Botswana’s most popular camps, a winning combination offering a diverse range of habitats and wildlife encounters. Ballooning and Helicopter rides can be included too.

This is an ideal safari for those looking to explore some of the Okavango’s best private concessions at top (but not over the top!) camps. All the ingredients for a brilliant safari are here – exclusive concessions, prime game viewing, diverse activities, stunning landscapes and beautiful accommodation. Excellent guiding tops this off to ensure a superb week

Chitabe, Little Vumbura Camp and Kwetsani are sister camps and designed to complement each other perfectly, offering a diverse range of habitats and wildlife encounters.

Little Vumbura is one of the most charming camps in the Okavango, set on a delightful little island in the east of the Okavango on the private Vumbura concession, this lovely little camp is one of the most popular in the Okavango- with good reason. Year round water guarantees a classic Okavango water safari while access to the vast plains of the Vumbura concession which boast some of the best 4×4 game viewing in the region means that the land safari experience is top notch here too.

Chitabe Camp lies in the south east of the Okavango on a private concessions which is home to impressive resident predator numbers. The game viewing here is explosive, lion, cheetah and wild dog are regularly seen here, Even rhino. The focus here is on 4×4 game drives and explosive game viewing. Chitabe is a smart but friendly camp with a superb team of guides from the local area who deliver exciting game viewing experiences.

Kwetsani is a small luxurious camp with just 5 tree-house style rooms set on a beautiful island in the remote western Okavango. The experience varies with the arrival of the annual flood, where the focus may be more on water or land activities – though days are always varied and productive. A special camp and the most luxurious in the itinerary, ensuring you end your safari on a high.

All camps are operated by Wilderness Safaris, widely acclaimed as the continent’s foremost ecotourism operator. Founded in Botswana in 1983, Wilderness Safaris has grown to be the largest ecotourism operator in Africa.

Day 1 - Chitabe Camp

On arrival into Maun Airport you will be met by a representative and assisted onto your flight to Chitabe Camp, a flight of about 20 minutes. Your guide will be waiting on arrival to transfer you to camp, a game drive of about 30 minutes, depending on sightings along the way.

Chitabe Camp is built on a pretty island in the southern Okavango Delta, in a private concession bordered on three sides by the Moremi Game Reserve. The animals roam freely between the reserve and concession, ensuring superb game viewing. This area receives flood waters later in the season and is markedly drier than the areas visited later in the itinerary, offering an interesting contrast. This area has some of the most exciting game viewing in Botswana.

Game viewing is excellent, look out for regulars like Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Reedbuck, Lechwe, Impala, Zebra and Hippo. And more. Wild dogs are among the major attractions of this area and a long-standing program to study the Wild Dogs is based nearby Chitabe Camp.

Activities focus on game drives in open 4×4 vehicles during the day and at night accompanied by an experienced guide, as well as nature walks. Chitabe is strictly a land activities only – no water activities are offered here.

Having met the team, settled into your room and enjoyed some refreshments you will then set off on your first game drive as the heat of thee day begins to subside and the animals begin to stir. Stopping in a scenic spot to toast the setting sun with a drink, you celebrate your first day on safari before returning to camp. A camp fire will be roaring and dinner follows shortly. You then retire for your first night in the Okavango, enjoy all the wonderful sounds of the nocturnal animals going about their business, safely tucked up in your lovely room.

Day 2 - Chitabe Camp

This morning you wake early, before sunrise. After a light breakfast you set off on your first morning game drive. This is generally the best time to see predators before they settle down to rest in the shade for the day. Beginning by tracking the movements of the night before, your guide will interpret the ‘news’ from the tracks as you explore the roads around camp and deeper into the concession. Perhaps there were unidentified sounds in the night which you will now follow up on…

Morning game drives usually last around 4 hours, depending on sightings, with a coffee break along the way. Returning around mid-morning for a hearty brunch you will then have a few hours to yourself to relax in your room or in the communal areas of the lodge. Most animals rest in midday heat and so will you! There is a pool that provides cool sanctuary in the heat of the day, a great spot to relax between activities.

Around mid -afternoon you will meet your guide for high tea and then set off on your afternoon drive, perhaps following up on the sightings from earlier or tracking new movements. Your guide will find another lovely spot to enjoy the beautiful sunset with some drinks before returning back to camp. As its gets dark – a spot light comes out to search for the nocturnal animals as they begin to emerge. Most predators hunt at night so you will be looking out for the big cats, but also the smaller cats such as servals, genets, African wild cats as well as civets and bushbabies- always a delight to see them leaping between branches.

This evening over dinner your guide will advise your flight time for your transfer to the next camp tomorrow, and you will plan your morning activities accordingly.

Day 3 - Little Vumbura

Another early start to the day with a morning game drive and breakfast before your flight to Little Vumbura Camp, a flight of about 20 minutes. On arrival you will be met by your guide who will transfer you to camp, a short drive from the airstrip to the boat jetty, where you will take a stunning 20 minute boat ride to Little Vumbura- your Okavango home for the next 3 nights.

Little Vumbura is situated on a wooded island in the same region as its sister camp, Vumbura Plains. Designed to blend in with its surroundings, the camp is a beautiful six bedroomed tented camp shaded by the canopy of an ancient Okavango forest. Each tent is ensuite, large and roomy with an open-air shower and views of the surroundings. A plunge pool and reading area overlooks the floodplains and a star deck leads off the dining area.

Your guide will discuss your particular interests and activity preferences and work these into your schedule across the next two days.

Day 4 and 5 - Little Vumbura

Your days will follow the same routine with early morning and late afternoon activities, planned and discussed beforehand with your guide.

Surrounded as it is by water and lying close to large rivers, water-based activities are a highlight here. Mokoro rides see you gliding through the floodplains under the guidance of experienced polers and motor boats explore the deeper permanent channels.

Game drives in open Land Rovers explore the savannah areas on the concession which are noted for their diversity and concentrations of plains game. Leopard stalk the woodland areas while cheetah are often spotted peering across the open plains. Lion and buffalo interactions are also a highlight. Walks (on request) around the island are an opportunity to enjoy Africa from a different perspective. Wildlife viewing and birding is consistently good all year round in this area.

Helicopter safaris and Hot Air Balloon Safaris can also be arranged from here, but must be pre-booked. Please speak to us for more information.

Day 6 - Kwetsani Camp

This morning you enjoy one last activity on the Vumbura concession before flying west to your final camp. This is a beautiful flight over the heart of the Okavango, including Chief’s Island, the largest land mass in the Okavango. You fly above glistening lagoons, palm tree islands thick forest and open savannah plains. The true beauty of the Okavango is spread out below you.

Landing in the western corner of the Okavango you will be met by your guide who will transfer you to camp by boat, or 4x4, depending on water levels. A warm welcome awaits at your final stop of the safari. Kwetsani is a beautiful luxury camp set high into the canopy of the tree line which overlooks a pretty floodplain. It has an intimate and very friendly feel. A relatively new camp, it boasts a fresh luxurious feel . Eyes are always drawn to the open floodplains which see a number of animals crossing in front of camp. The large glass fronted rooms make the most of these wonderful views.

This is a particularly pretty area of the Okavango, and the perfect spot to end your safari with a very spoiling camp. Activities here focus on the rise and fall of the annual flood. Game drives are always offered on nearby Hunda Island, the largest island in the area with good game viewing. When the floods arrive (around April/May until around September) boating and mokoro excursions are offered as well.

Having settled into your beautiful tent you will have some time to relax before setting off on your afternoon activity with your guide.

Day 7 -Kwetsani Camp

Your last full day on safari, make the most of it! Perhaps an early morning game drive to explore this new ecosystem. A final chance to cross off any missing animals from your check list! Though by now you will have realized this is so much more than a checklist safari, relish the freedom from the daily grind and enjoy your last day in true wilderness.

Between activities the sparkling pool and elegant sun-lounging deck offer a lovely location to relax during the hotter hours of the day.

Day 8 - End of Safari

The time for your flight to Maun will be finalized the day before departure and your guide will advise you what time you will be leaving camp. The flight will always be scheduled to connect with any onward travel arrangements. Depending on the time of departure, as discussed with your guide, you will enjoy one final morning activity and a delicious brunch before bidding farewell to the Okavango. The flight to Maun will take approximately 20 minutes, depending on stops along the way. On arrival a representative will meet you to ensure you connect to your onward travel arrangements.

Chitabe Camp

Little vumbura, kwetsani camp.

Water Level

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At Okavango Delta Explorations we specialise in crafting safaris to this unique ecosystem.

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Extensions to this safari

DumaTau is a top luxury camp with a spectacular setting on the magnificent Osprey lagoon in the remote wilds of northern of Botswana. It has a prime location to experience the famous elephant mega herds and good all round game too. Following an extensive rebuild in 2020 Duma Tau has reopened as a premier luxury camp offering a sumptuous safari experience. The Osprey retreat features a wellness centre, gym and lap pool. Activities include game drives, walking and boating.

Toka Leya Camp

Set within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Toka Leya Camp is one of the best safari style accommodation options in the area, a stylish sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the falls, with an excellent range of safari and adventure activities. Upstream from Victoria Falls on the banks of the Zambezi River lies Toka Leya – a luxurious safari camp named in tribute to the indigenous inhabitants that once lived here.

• Duration 7 Nights
• Rates Jan 2024 USD 11,220 Feb 2024 USD 11,220 Mar 2024 USD 11,220 Apr 2024 USD 12,990 May 2024 USD 15,521 Jun 2024 USD 20,384 Jul 2024 USD 20,384 Aug 2024 USD 20,384 Sep 2024 USD 20,384 Oct 2024 USD 20,384 Nov 2024 USD 13,150 Dec 2024 USD 20,384

Featured Properties

Chitabe Camp has some of the best game viewing in the Delta. This is no surprise as the Chitabe concession is bordered on three sides by the rich Moremi Game Reserve; thrilling predator sightings are common though the game viewing is interestingly varied. Chitabe is a classic tented camp offering a traditional safari with a strong reputation for excellent guiding.

Little Vumbura is a Classic Wilderness Camp well known for its spectacular and diverse wildlife sightings. Shaded by a forest canopy, Little Vumbura camp offers a perfect all-round experience that affords the safari enthusiast the opportunity to enjoy both water and land activities on the concession floodplains. Six luxury tents with private decks boast incredible scenic vistas and together with a well - situated star deck make this particular camp well worth visiting.

Small, exclusive and luxurious, Kwetsani Camp is suspended high in the tree line of a palm-fringed island on the pretty Jao concession. The beautiful surroundings here offer a complete immersion in a classic Delta landscape. Water and land activities are conducted, though vary with the transformation of the flats with the arrival of the annual flood. Kwetsani Camp is sophisticated and yet understated with smart rooms which make the most of the fabulous views of the floodplains.

Experience the Okavango Delta

Contact us for more information and to start planning your Okavango safari

Botswana Safaris

Africa’s ultimate safari destination.

Experience Botswana as few travelers do, on a mobile camping safari—a true immersion in the untamed beauty of Africa. Designed to bring you away from the crowds and close to wildlife, our journeys explore the game-rich savannas of Chobe and Moremi on exhilarating game drives and by private boat, and head out on exciting bush walks and mokoro canoe excursions in the Okavango Delta. At journey’s end, experience one of the natural wonders of the world—Victoria Falls!

All Trips to Botswana

Small Group Adventure

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe

From $9,895

Botswana: Kalahari Explorer

From $11,395

Botswana: Okavango Explorer

Ultimate Namibia and Botswana

Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana

From $11,595

Great Elephant Migration Safari

From $9,295

Private Journey

Botswana and Victoria Falls Private Safari

From $8,495

South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Botswana Private Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa

From $8,595

What Makes Our Botswana Safaris Special?

• Explore Africa the way few travelers ever do with  private mobile camps and boutique lodges  that get you close to the wildlife and away from the crowds.
• Expert  naturalist guides lead your entire safari  (no handing you off from lodge to lodge); and a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1 in camp.
• Epic game viewing and great variety:  4WD vehicle, bush walks, private riverboat, canoe, and scenic charter flights.
• Custom-built 4WD safari vehicles  with guaranteed window seats and roof hatches with 360-degree views.
• Experience  Botswana’s phenomenal landscapes:  the Okavango Delta, a World Heritage Site, exquisite Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park, with its massive herds of elephant.
• We offer  a Botswana safari for every season,  from our classic 11-day journey that includes Victoria Falls to our 14-day in-depth adventures in the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Desert.

Everything You Need to Know

There is no wrong time to go on safari in Botswana, however, it is generally accepted that the best game viewing period is from late March to October. Because of the minimal rainfall during this season, the bush turns golden brown and in many areas is beaten flat, so game viewing is easier and animals concentrate around major water sources.

There is simply no experience that compares to a mobile safari. A world apart from lodge-based, our mobile camps immerse you deep in Botswana’s most magnificent and wildlife-rich terrain in absolute comfort.

• Spacious tents are equipped with comfortable beds (no cots!), and en suite private bathrooms with washbasins and hot showers.
• A private guide, chef, camp manager, tent steward, and camp team stay with you throughout your mobile safari. Our staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1 for the highest quality of service.
• Thrilling game viewing: our mobile camps have you out in the heart of the parks and close to the wildlife—no long drives back and forth on dusty lodge roads.

With its wide-open, sparsely populated countryside, Botswana has set aside more land for national parks and game reserves than any other country in Africa. It is a landlocked nation covering an area slightly smaller than the state of Texas. In essence, Botswana is a sandy plateau situated at an average elevation of 3,000-3,500 feet above sea level. Its most dominant geological feature is the Kalahari Desert, which covers roughly 80% of the country. At the northern edge of this arid area lies the Okavango Delta—the “Jewel of the Kalahari”—where the Okavango River is tamed by the semi-desert and spills over an area the size of Switzerland, and then disappears into the sand, never reaching the ocean to the south. It is the largest inland delta in the world. With its permanent supply of water, the Okavango Delta supports what is probably the most diverse profusion of plant and animal life in Southern Africa.

Setswana is the main language in Botswana, understood by about 90% of the people. Although you can manage well without knowing any of the language, it is always fun (and appreciated) when you try to use a few words.

Hello (to man/woman) —  Dumela mma/rra Hello (to a group) —  Dumelang Goodbye (person leaving) —  Tsamayo sentle Goodbye (person staying) —  Sala sentle Please —  Tsweetswee Thank you —  Kea itumela Yes/No —  Ee/Nnyaa Excuse me —  Intshwarele OK/No problem —  Go siame How are you? (morning) —  A o tsogile? How are you? (evening) —  O tlhotse jang? My name is… —  Leina la me ke… I’m from…. —  Ke tswa kwa… Come in! —  Tsena!

The earliest recorded inhabitants of Botswana were the Basarwa, sometimes called Bushmen, although their proper name is San, meaning “people.”” Only about 3,000 full-blooded Basarwa still follow their traditional way of life, hunting and gathering in the harsh northern Kalahari. There are nearly 50,000 other Basarwas in Botswana and neighboring countries who have adapted more modern-day lifestyles. The migration of Bantu-speaking peoples from the north came later, and they brought their cattle herds with them.

In 1817, the English missionary Robert Moffat arrived and established a mission station at Kuruman. He set the Setswana language into written form and translated the bible into Setswana. The Boers swept through the land in 1835 and acquired vast tracts of land regardless of prior claims or inhabitants. In 1841, Dr. Livingstone befriended Robert Moffat and married his daughter Mary at Kuruman. Livingstone’s earlier explorations had brought him through Kolobeng to Lake Ngami in the Maun area (he was the first European to see the lake) and on to the Chobe River, the Zambezi, and Victoria Falls. After 1860, the Boers, Germans, and British carved up large tracts of land among themselves.

The British Government made Bechuanaland (Botswana) a British Protectorate in 1885. Cecil Rhodes tried to take over with his British South Africa Company in 1894, but failed. British Rule lasted 70 years. The 1960s saw the formation of the first political parties in Bechuanaland. In 1963, constitutional talks began and the machinery for self-rule and the establishment of the new capital city, Gaborone, was started. The first general elections were held in 1965 and independence was declared on September 30, 1966. Today, Botswana has one of the fastest growing economies in the African continent. The long tradition of kgotla (tribal assembly where there is freedom of speech and debate) has translated easily into a multi-party parliamentary democracy.

Experience Botswana

Extend Your Trip

Okavango Delta Safari Extension

From $4,795

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

An extraordinary trip. The tent camping experience and the lodges were outstanding. The assurance that we were truly experiencing the world as the animals (and birds) do made it an intensely rewarding experience.

The small number of participants with Wilderness Travel makes a much more intimate interaction with the areas visited. It was wonderful being in a small group of ten. Our guide’s ability to spot things in the bush was pretty incredible—he found leopards for us (with their kills), lions we would never have seen, and every bird everywhere. Great personality, too!

We were very excited to be going on safari and all of our expectations were met and exceeded. This was the adventure of a lifetime! Top quality in every way.

The entire trip was first class. The service from the trip team was outstanding. I felt like I was at a five-star hotel rather than out in the African Bush.

The itinerary and pace of the trip was perfect. I saw more wildlife than I have seen on previous trips to Africa. Camp was charming and very comfortable with attentive and helpful staff. Kay, the cook, was amazing!

Great schedule with a focus on seeing every inch of the territory, animals, birds, learning about the terrain and the history of Botswana. A wonderful, well-run operation and very well planned and executed.

This was one of our best trips ever. We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, and co-travelers. It was the right mix of comfort and authentic experience and we saw so much more than anticipated.

This trip truly exceeded our expectations and made it the trip of a lifetime. We saw far more wildlife, up front and personal, beyond our imagination.

Talk to an Expert

Our Africa Specialists know every detail about our Botswana safaris. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Okavango Delta

Wilderness safaris okavango delta.

Wilderness Safaris boasts a grand portfolio of wonderful safari camps in the Okavango Delta.

Wilderness Safaris one of the original lodge operators in the the safari industry in Botswana are thirteen beautifully appointed lodges to choose from.

Chitabe Camp

lodge style Conscious and comfortable

No comfort is spared at Chitabe Camp: not only do they pamper their guests, but the camp also supports research and conservation projects to keep wildlife healthy, as well as education and events for staff and family.

Jacana Camp

lodge style About birds and water lilies

Dive into a remote safari experience at Jacana Camp, accessible only by boat. Floating between seas of water lilies, crystal clear Delta water and swaying reeds, this is the ultimate location for a personal, luxurious Delta safari.

Little Tubu

lodge style Homey yet modern safari

Opened in 2013, Little Tubu is a modern, spacious accommodation that feels light and airy. With only room for six guests, it has a classic, vintage safari vibe – where it feels like it is just you, the bush, and nothing else.

lodge style Paradise   riverine  forest

Meet the mongoose family that made Jao Camp their home. This smart species settled in the region of Jao for good reason: it is a lush bush paradise, where you -like the mongoose- will immerse yourself in a landscape of luxury and complete relaxation.

lodge style Remote, genuine and wild

Surrounded by permanent open floodplains, the tented Pelo Camp is all about venturing into the papyrus waterways of Botswana's Okavango Delta. Located on a heart-shaped island – Pelo means ‘heart’ in Setswana - it will easily win over yours.

lodge style Okavango Family safari fun

Discover the Okavango Delta water wonders at your (tent) doorstep in Seba Camp. A family friendly, calm safari lodge, located in a magnificent corner of the Delta. Seba offers panorama Delta-scenery; the perfect space for viewing wildlife in action

Vumbura Plains Camp

lodge style Feather light luxury safari

This is a modern, eco-friendly camp, where the staff understands the definition of wow-factor and how to create forever-cherished moments. Treat yourself to a unforgettable African paradise in the Okavango.

Little Vumbura Camp

lodge style Gem under a canopy of trees

Secluded among ancient trees, Little Vumbura Camp is a remote island where a warm staff will welcome you with song and hot towels. Wipe away the busy western world and let the tranquil island vibe wash over you.

Chitabe  Lediba Camp

lodge style Intimate family gathering

With just five luxurious safari tents, elevated on wooden decks and rising up from shallow waterways, this warm camp radiates a family atmosphere. Simply because the owners put their people – guests and staff - first.

Kwetsani Camp

lodge style Tree Top safari

High, high up in the trees, is a small, remote paradise. This is not the beginning of a fairy-tale, but a place that really exists: the completely renovated Kwetsani in the Okavango welcomes you in one of their tree house chalets.

Duma Tau Camp

lodge style Light footprint

With a Hippo Highway, expert guides and views over the lagoon, nothing will stand in the way of an amazing Okavango Delta safari experience at solar powered Duma Tau Camp. Except from an ‘elephant’ traffic jam, perhaps.

Tubu Tree Camp

lodge style Rustic, sophisticated, elegant

Deep in the Botswana Delta is the warm Tubu Tree Camp; where the staff quickly knows your name, elephant Franklin drops by every morning for juicy leaves, and guides are truly devoted showing the Delta’s beauty to you.

QOROKWE CAMP

Okavango delta, a wealth wildlife in diverse habitats.

The exclusive Qorokwe Concession encompasses over 26 180 hectares (64 692 acres) in a high-density game area of the south-eastern Okavango, bordering the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, which has been unutilised for more than four years. Exploring Qorokwe reveals a world of diverse Delta habitats supporting a wealth of wildlife, earning the area’s well-deserved reputation as a top Botswana safari destination. Qorokwe Camp has eight elegant tented suites plus one very spacious family unit with its own splash pool. En-suite facilities feature an indoor/outdoor shower. The magnificent main area is the focal point of the camp and overlooks a lagoon.  The dining area, lounge, library and bar are built on raised wooden platforms, all connected by walkways.

The Qorokwe Concession comprises various biomes, from scattered acacia woodland with herds of giraffe, zebra and various plains game to pristine floodplains, home to curious red lechwe and gnarled buffalo bulls, whence the name Qorokwe is derived: “The place where the buffalo broke through the bush into the water.” Besides the local lion pride comprising some 15 members, elephant are a feature of this classic Okavango Delta setting.

Botswana Safari Company recommends Qorokwe Camp for its extraordinary setting, exceptional viewing and enthusiastic expert guides.

QOROKWE CAMP CAMP RATES

11 January - 31 March 2020, US$1 115.00 01 April - 31 May 2020, US$1 330.00

01 June - 31 October 2020, US$2 230.00

01 November - 19 December 2020, US$1 380.00

20 December 2020 - 10 January 2021 US$1 720.00​

Fully inclusive - Per person sharing per night - Excludes flights

QOROKWE CAMP IMAGE GALLERY

Start planning your, botswana safari.

EAGLE ISLAND

MOREMI CROSSING

CAMP OKAVANGO

CAMP MOREMI

CHIEFS CAMP

LITTLE MOMBO

LITTLE KWARA

XUGANA ISLAND

VUMBURA PLAINS

LITTLE VUMBURA

DUBA PLAINS

KHWAI  TENTED

DUBA EXPEDITION

CHITABE LEDIBA

SABLE ALLEY

LITTLE TUBU

XOBEGA ISLAND

Click On The Camp To View In Detail

Encounter the Extraordinary

Discover Wilderness Chitabe and its prolific wildlife, for an out-of-this-world safari experience.

DESTINATIONS

Wilderness Chitabe

Grab your camera for some of the best photo ops in Africa.

Renowned as a predator hotspot, Botswana’s Chitabe is ideally located on private conservation land, bordered on the north by the famed Moremi Game Reserve. Here a mosaic of habitats supports outstanding wildlife numbers and biodiversity, and some of the most thrilling predator-prey sightings on Earth.

Chitabe moments

The dramatic mix of Kalahari and Okavango habitats, with consistent predator-prey interaction, makes Chitabe in Botswana a wildlife photographer's dream. Our highly trained Chitabe guides will help you capture unforgettable wilderness memories on day and night drives, as well as on guided walks.

Accommodation

THE DETAILS

Arrive as a stranger but leave as a friend at Wilderness Chitabe. Here the personalised touch and stunning individually styled tented suites are enhanced by the owners' particular interest in wild dogs and photography. Let us share our passion for the Okavango Delta with you.

Supporting conservation

By staying at Chitabe, you directly impact the wild animals that call the Okavango Delta home. That’s because Chitabe supports Wild Entrust Africa, the umbrella organisation for all large predator conservation research in Botswana. Your stay also benefits our local employees with life-enriching school education donations and generous profit-shares.

Maintain your step count while on safari.

Enjoy a sundowner by the pool.

Stay in touch with those you love.

Chitabe is 100% solar powered.

Take home a locally crafted keepsake.

Feel the thrill of sighting one of these cats.

Endangered African wild dogs make a star turn.

Glimpse a leopard with its impala prize in a tree.

No animal matches up to this bushveld icon.

Where Kalahari and Delta meet

Chitabe is located across the Gomoti Channel from the famed Moremi Game Reserve. The permanent water from the channels forming its eastern and western boundaries ensure a compact concentration of thrilling game-viewing year round. The large prey densities make Chitabe a stronghold for African wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a smorgasbord of prey.

Discover prolific wildlife in diverse habitats.

Spy on buffalo and elephant herds from above.

Tick hundreds of bird species on your list.

Tsodilo Hills excursion

Hiking, rock art, and traditional music await.

Chitabe experiences

Explore camps in the okavango delta.

Chitabe covers 22,000 hectares of pristine Okavango Delta wilderness, home to some of the best wildlife sightings on Earth. Here Botswana’s seasonal Gomoti River brings an ebb and flow of ever-changing wildlife to the camp and the floodplains that surround it.

Chitabe awards

Camp awards

Tripadvisor COE 2019

African Responsible Tourism 2017

Readers Choice Award

SIMILAR CAMPS

Similar camps we think you'll love

Where is the okavango delta.

The Okavango Delta in north-west Botswana is the world’s largest inland delta. Covering a large swathe of the Kalahari Desert, this is a vast and varied ecosystem that provides a sanctuary for some of the world’s rarest birds and wildlife.

How big is the Okavango Delta?

The Okavango Delta is dynamic, and constantly changing with the seasonal rains. It occupies an area of between 6,000 and 15,000 square kilometres, the channels rivers flowing into the semi-desert Kalahari to create a safari experience quite like anywhere else on earth.

What is the best time to visit the Okavango Delta?

Chitabe in Botswana is ready to welcome you all year round. While each season brings a unique appeal, wildlife numbers are concentrated between July and October. These drier months also allow for seasonal walking opportunities.

What should I wear on safari in Botswana?

Khaki, green and beige are essential neutral colours for a safari in the bush, particularly if you would like to take a walk on the wild side. Also be sure to pack a long-sleeved shirt, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, and some good sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera and spare memory card for some epic safari shots.

Chitabe featured stories

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

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World Class Safaris in Botswana

Wilderness safaris botswana.

Wilderness Safaris Botswana has a grand portfolio of luxurious, eco-friendly and sustainable safari lodges and camps. Synonymous with luxury safari camps in Botswana, Wilderness Safaris was established in Botswana in 1983 as a mobile safari operator and has grown to establish a presence in eight countries in Africa, protecting over three million hectares of pristine wilderness areas. The Wilderness Safaris Botswana camps are among the finest in Botswana. Exceptional guiding teams, the finest hospitality and gorgeous suites in some of the most stunning locations mean a stay at a Wilderness Safari camp will deliver only the best safari experience.

ABOUT WILDERNESS SAFARIS CAMPS

Flagship premier camps like Mombo Camp and Vumbura Plains and DumaTau rub shoulders with the classic favourite camps like Chitabe Camp, Kwetsani Camp and Kalahari Plains Camp. There are 20 camps in the portfolio, categorised by Premier, Classic and Adventure. There is only 1 Adventure camp, Pelo Camp, which is a comfortable and authentic safari camp. These are luxurious and high-end safari camps, where, once you get there, almost everything is included. All your meals, your game drives, mokoro rides and bush walks, many alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and most will also include top-shelf drinks. Park fees or community conservation fees will also be included in the nightly rate. You would only need to pay for spa treatments, or helicopter flips, your curio purchases and your gratuities to the team on the ground.

Explore Victoria Falls to Botswana Luxury Safari with Wilderness Safaris

EXPERIENCES AT WILDERNESS SAFARIS CAMPS

Outstanding wildlife and incredible game viewing are at the top of a long list of why you should go on a Botswana Safari! Pristine wildlife havens are home to predators like lions, leopard, wild dogs, hyenas and cheetah. Huge herds of elephants can be found throughout the northern protected areas of Botswana. The Okavango Delta creates a breathtaking backdrop to the game viewing activities. Crystal clear, papyrus lined waterways, large flood plains, and numerous islands with palm trees come together to create a truly spectacular landscape. The Wilderness Safaris Botswana camps are in private concessions which allows for a myriad of activities to take place. Game drives and night drives are available at all the camps. Bush walks are on offer as well. Some camps are deep in the Okavango Delta and can offer water-based activities like Mokoro (canoe or mekoro) rides, motorised boating and fishing throughout the year. Camps on the edges of the Delta will only offer these activities in high season, water levels dependent. Kalahari Plains Camp is in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and offers an incredible interaction with Africa’s oldest people, The San. Interact with rescued, orphaned elephants at Abu Camp and gain a deeper understanding of these incredible animals.

SPECTACULAR SCENES AT WILDERNESS SAFARIS BOTSWANA CAMPS

We have said it before and will keep saying int, Botswana is a gorgeous country to go on a luxury safari to. The Okavango Delta, in particular, produces some spectacular sunsets. The birdlife in northern Botswana is outstanding all year round, while the green season from December through to March sees the arrival of the iridescent Carmine bee-eater and other migratory birds.

Read: Botswana Safari Guide

Let’s talk about Wilderness Safaris Botswana

Wilderness safaris – premier camps.

Mombo Camp is one of the finest safari lodges and in one of the best game viewing areas in Africa. Opulent, gorgeous and spacious suites boast sweeping views across the floodplains. The area around Mombo teams with plains game which attracts predators like lion and leopard. This area was chosen to reintroduce both black and white rhino to Botswana.

Vumbura Plains Camp

Vumbura Plains Camp is located in the northern Okavango Delta, offering a sublime safari experience and outstanding game viewing. Predator sightings are common at Vumbura Plains, with healthy populations of wild dog and lions. Both land and water-based activities are offered here. The raised tents all have private plunge pools and sala’s.

Set in riverine forests on the edge of a large lagoon, Abu camp is an opulent and beautiful camp. Each tented suite has an outdoor copper bath and a private plunge pool. A unique activity is spending time with the elephants of the Abu Herd. Abu rescued orphaned elephants and have worked tirelessly to rewild them. As a result, guests can witness the elephants in their natural habitat.

Jao Camp is famous for incredible wildlife sightings in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Regular sightings of wildlife from the camp make this an exciting place to visit. The gorgeous and luxurious Jao camp suites have private plunge pools and lovely views.

DumaTau Camp

DumaTau is a stunning camp in the Linyanti area of northern Botswana, in a beautiful spot overlooking a lagoon. Large concentrations of elephants are among the animals seen here.

Kings Pool Camp

Kings Pool Camp overlooks a lagoon in Linyanti. This luxurious camp also boasts a sunken hide allowing a unique perspective as animals, especially elephants, come to drink at the water.

Little Mombo Camp

Little Mombo is in the same area as Mombo, with the same incredible game viewing. This is an exclusive use, gorgeous and intimate camp perfect for small groups and families.

Little DumaTau Camp

Little DumaTau is an eco-friendly premier safari camp with a light footprint. Overlooking the same lagoon as DumaTau, this camp is an exclusive-use camp. Intimate and luxurious, this is a wonderful camp for small groups.

WILDERNESS SAFARIS BOTSWANA – CLASSIC CAMPS

Jacana Camp

Jacana Camp is on a small island in the middle of the Okavango Delta and offers s true water paradise safari. Mokoro through the waterways in search of the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl and other birds found in this picturesque area.

Kwetsani Camp

Kwetsani Camp is a remote camp in the Okavango Delta and offers a good combination of both land and water activities. The camp has incredible views across the floodplains. This remote area has excellent game viewing.

Qorokwe Camp

Qorokwe Camp offers both land and water-based activities with outstanding predator sightings all year round. Located in the south-eastern Okavango Delta. The well-appointed and spacious tents overlook a lagoon.

Tubu Tree Camp

Tubu Tree Camp is on the stunningly beautiful Hundu Island, offering remarkable vistas, excellent leopard sightings and a host of other large game. Water and land-based activities are on offer at Tubu Tree Camp. Each elevated spacious tent overlooks the Okavango Delta, where animals are frequently spotted.

Chitabe Camp

Chitabe Camp is located in the southeast of the Okavango Delta, neighbouring Moremi Game Reserve. Chitabe offers outstanding game viewing all year round. Each tent is on a raised deck nestled under shady trees. The camp has stunning views over the floodplain.

Chitabe Lebida

Chitabe Lebida is perfect for small groups or families travelling together and offers the same excellent game viewing all year round as Chitabe. Daily game drives, night drives and walks are the activities on offer.

Savuti Camp

Savuti Camp is in the Linyanti concession with the Savute Channel running through it. When the channel flows with floodwaters, Savuti Camp has front row seats to the geological marvel. This area is well known for excellent predator sightings and high concentrations of plains game.

Kalahari Plains Camp

Kalahari Plains has views for miles over the Kalahari desert. Each suite is elevated to enhance the endless horizons and catch the breeze. Diverse game viewing and interesting cultural activities are available at Kalahari Plains Camp

Seba Camp is nestled under hardwood trees in an ancient riverine forest. Leopards are often spotted on game drives at Seba Camp as are large herds of elephants. This classic eco-friendly camp offers land and water-based game viewing and is family-friendly.

Little Vumburu Camp

Little Vumburu Camp is nestled under a canopy in the northern part of the Okavango Delta. This area offers diverse and spectacular wildlife sightings.

Linyanti Tented Camp

Linyanti Tented Camp is an exclusive-use camp in the Linyanti Concession overlooking the Linyanti Marsh. Perfect for small groups and families, each suite recreates the style of early explorers.

Little Tubu Camp

Little Tubu Camp is an exclusive-use camp in the Delta, boasting great leopard sightings among others. Elevate walkways connect the tents and main areas/ Each tent is a classic safari tent on decks with private viewing over a seasonal riverbed.

WILDERNESS SAFARIS BOTSWANA – ADVENTURE CAMP

Deep in the Okavango Delta lies Pelo Camp, offering a superb water safari experience. This eco-friendly camp has authentic safari tents with covered decks overlooking the picturesque Okavango. Only open from March to November, Pelo Camp is a remote and genuine safari camp to visit.

New yoga and safari retreat camp opens in northern Botswana

4 June 2024

Munga Plains, a new retreat centre offering a unique fusion of yoga and safari experiences opened its doors in May 2024.

Munga Plains, a new retreat center offering a unique fusion of yoga and safari experiences in the heart of the African wilderness, has opened its doors with a soft launch in May 2024. Nestled within the vast expanse of Chobe National Park, Botswana, it’s the ideal location to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with like-minded individuals, vibrant local cultures, and rich nature and wildlife. 

Last month, Munga Plains invited a select group of yoga teachers, photographers, and content creators from around the world, all accustomed to the finest retreats and most awe-inspiring locations, to test out the experience. 

Starting in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the retreat took the ten guests through Chobe National Park and culminated in five days at Munga Plains’ comfortable glamping site with rejuvenating yoga sessions and a variety of thrilling safari and cultural activities. The dedicated Shala set amidst the open plains became a sanctuary of tranquility and inspiration. Read more about the soft launch retreat and reviews from the first guests . 

“If you’re looking for a captivating and enchanting experience that combines the tranquility of yoga with the excitement of a safari adventure, this retreat is for you. I can’t wait to return and soak in the magic of Munga Plains all over again!” Lisa Tonelli-Smith, Iyengar teacher, Australia

“Genuinely one of the best experiences of my life. I can’t fully put into words how beautiful this trip was – the space, the staff, the country, the people, the wildlife, the classes, and to see how much of an amazing impact this place has on the local community.” Katrina Crossley, Vinyasa teacher, UK

About Munga Plains

Munga Plains is dedicated to the well-being and growth of the local community. Situated on the former tribal land of the Basubiya people, Munga Plains honours their cultural heritage by hiring local staff, supporting artisans, and collaborating on community projects. Guests experience local traditions and lifestyles, ensuring every visit positively impacts the community.

Sustainability is at the core of Munga Plains. Its facilities, built with wood, thatching grass, and canvas, have a minimal environmental impact. The company uses solar power and treats its own water and sewage. Munga Plains eco-friendly safari activities support Chobe National Park’s conservation efforts, home to the world’s highest concentration of elephants.

Thierry Nyfeler founded Munga Plains after a transformative trip to Botswana in 2021. Leaving behind his Sales Director role in the tech industry, Thierry created Munga Plains to offer to others the profound disconnection he experienced. 

Since 2022, he has dedicated himself to building a sanctuary that embodies healing, sustainability, and community.

Source: https://www.westernslopenow.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/717084329/new-yoga-safari-retreat-camp-opens-in-northern-botswana/

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Why These Sustainable Safari Experiences In Botswana Are Essential For Any Nature Lover

A frican wildlife is hanging in a delicate balance. Recent decades have seen shrinking animal populations right across the continent. This is a pretty sobering thought, particularly if you’re contemplating a safari. Fortunately, luxury accommodations and amazing wildlife adventures don’t have to come at the expense of the places you want to visit. An increasing number of African lodges have started prioritizing eco-friendliness and many travelers have started paying attention to the environmental impact of their vacations.

There are few countries in Africa that can compete with Botswana for exclusivity and luxury, as well as abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes. With a population of roughly 2 million, Botswana is slightly smaller than Texas and slightly larger than France — yet an incredible 40 percent of the country is dedicated to parks and wildlife. Botswana’s government has decided on a low-volume, low-impact tourism policy, which means fewer tourists and a better-protected natural wilderness. In addition, they have dedicated their army to anti-poaching, which is an additional reason why the country is such a safe haven for wildlife.

Where you go in Botswana and who you travel with can make a real difference, both to the environment and to your experience and enjoyment. Let me share with you two of my favorite destinations in Botswana, three of my favorite sustainable safari companies to travel with, and some of my all-time favorite eco-conscious safari lodges to stay at in Botswana.

The Okavango Delta

A stunning maze of waterways and lagoons, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s premier wilderness sanctuaries. This 6,177-square-mile wetland wilderness in northern Botswana is one of the largest inland deltas in the world and it teems with wildlife. You’ll find elephants, hippos, and crocodiles here, along with black and white rhinos, buffalo, wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and rare antelope like lechwe and the super special but shy sitatunga. Predators like leopards and lions abound, and this is one of the best places in Africa to see African wild dogs. The Okavango Delta is home to over 1,000 species of plants, around 500 species of birds, 130 species of mammals, and numerous species of reptiles and fish — a real wildlife paradise. The Okavango Delta was voted one of the stunning Seven Natural Wonders of Africa in 2013, and the following year, it was the 1,000th site to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Incredibly, at its fullest, the Okavango Delta is large enough to be seen from space.

Where To Stay

There are some truly special places to stay in the Okavango Delta; lodges that are synonymous with luxury, but are still deeply conscious of conservation and protecting the places in which they operate. 

Wilderness Vumbura Plains Camp

Wilderness Vumbura Plains Camp is located in the far northern reaches of the delta. Two separate but linked camps, Vumbura has a total of 14 spacious, raised rooms, each with indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and outdoor areas from where you can watch a passing parade of wildlife. The grasslands here offer great seasonal wildlife viewing, and you can easily fill your days with game drives, walking safaris, and boating. Morning and afternoon game drives will bring you up close to thrilling wildlife interactions. Mokoro (dugout canoe) trips are also highly recommended and fishing during the annual flood season gives you the chance to pursue the highly prized tiger fish. Conscious of its ecological footprint, the camp is largely run on solar power.

Duba Plains Camp

Blissfully isolated and accessible only by air, Great Plains Conservation’s Duba Plains Camp lies on a 77,000-acre private concession in a particularly beautiful part north of the delta. Six vintage-style, luxuriously tented rooms built in the shade of tall trees overlook the flood plains. It features antique-style furnishings, oriental rugs, canopy beds shrouded in mosquito netting, and a climate-controlled wine cellar containing a few hundred bottles of wine. This is a special place. 

Elephants and hippos frequently trudge through camp and the wildlife here is the subject of numerous award-winning National Geographic documentaries by founders Derek and Beverley Joubert — including Eternal Enemies which chronicles the battle for survival between lions and buffalo in the area. Duba Plains guarantees a memorable stay and prides itself on its extraordinary wildlife experiences. In a commitment to the local community, Great Plains facilitates Kids Conservation Education Camps, educating local school children about wildlife and conservation.

Khwai Leadwood Camp

Set within a community-run part of the delta, called the Khwai concession, African Bush Camps’ elegantly designed Khwai Leadwood Camp is beautiful. It features six standard tents and a family tent, all tucked under trees on the edge of the Khwai River. The river is the only thing that separates the camp from the fantastic Moremi Game Reserve and wildlife like hippos, elephants, and even lions crossing the river from time to time. It’s an exceptional experience even for the most seasoned safari veteran. An additional bonus here is that guests can head off on night drives and get an up-close and personal experience with some of Africa’s nocturnal and more elusive animals. African Bush Camps has a number of eco-tourism initiatives that operate in conjunction with the local community.

The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

The 275,000-acre Linyanti Wildlife Reserve in the northwest of Botswana is a safari destination you’ve quite possibly never heard of. Nestled between the Okavango Delta and Chobe River, here, the Kwando River, Selinda Spillway, Linyanti River, and Savuti Channel create a system of river channels and floodplains. Hundreds of miles from so-called civilization, the Linyanti is one of the most game-rich regions in Botswana, known for its wild dog populations, lions, hyenas, elephants, and huge herds of buffalo. Most of the lodges here are accessible only by light aircraft.

Wilderness King’s Pool Camp

Tucked into a grove of giant jackal berry trees, Wilderness King’s Pool Camp has a vast private concession all to itself overlooking an oxbow lagoon on the Linyanti River. This river forms the border between Namibia and Botswana, and King’s Pool is right at the center of the important wildlife corridor in the reserve. The camp consists of eight spacious thatched-roof chalets set on raised decks near the water’s edge, all connected by raised wooden walkways to the rest of the camp. King’s Pool boasts a sunken hideaway overlooking the lagoon, which attracts an impressive array of wildlife and birdlife — especially elephants — who come to drink the water. Demonstrating its commitment to sustainable tourism, the camp is 100 percent solar-powered and wastewater is treated to ensure it’s safe before passing into the surrounding environment. 

Selinda Camp

Located in the vast 320,000-acre Selinda Reserve, Selinda Camp is one of Botswana’s most exclusive camps and — with just three guest tents — one of its smallest. Selinda is Arabic for “beloved one,” and what’s not to love here? Enjoy game drives, walks, boating, tracking, and birding amongst some of the best wildlife Botswana has to offer. The nearby Selinda Spillway is home to prides of lions and incredible concentrations of buffalo. 

The camp’s spacious, luxury tents sit below cooling thatched roofs and feature ensuite bathrooms and private verandas, each with a swimming pool. The camp’s main dining and lounge area has spectacular views out over the lagoon. Selinda is where Derek and Beverly Joubert filmed Birth of a Pride — a story of survival, of lions returning to an area where they’d once been hunted to near extinction. Selinda Camp has been named one of the world’s Top 100 Sustainable Destinations.

Linyanti Ebony Camp

At the heart of the Linyanti Wildlife haven is Linyanti Ebony , an intimate camp with just four tents — making it perfect, particularly for family-oriented safaris. Built on raised decking overlooking the Linyanti Marsh, this is an intimate camp with panoramic views of the incredible natural wetland surroundings. The camp’s design offers an eco-conscious base from which to explore this amazing wilderness and the main area encompasses a large lounge and dining area, perfect for al-fresco dinners under a star-studded sky.

Planning Your Trip To Botswana

It’s sometimes hard to know where to start when planning an African safari, especially if it’s your first time. Mahlatini specializes in sustainable safaris and has been putting together fantastic African itineraries for over 20 years. They offer an 8-night safari to Vumbura Plains, Duba Plains, King’s Pool, and Selinda Camp, with 2 nights in each camp. It costs $16,060 per person on a fully inclusive basis — including daily activities, international flights, and light aircraft and road transfers.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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The 10 Best Safari Lodges in Africa in 2022

The best safari lodges, according to Travel + Leisure readers, go beyond the traditional game drive with a wide range of cultural experiences.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite safari lodges in Africa.

For Travel + Leisure readers, the best safari lodges in Africa aren't necessarily traditional safari properties — though plenty of those did make this list. Take, for example, Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge — a luxurious base for tracking mountain gorillas in the cloud forest of Rwanda. It seems that this once-in-a-lifetime experience elevated guests' memories beyond those of Big Five safaris: the word amazing appears repeatedly in Bisate reviews.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

This year's World's Best list reveals a growing interest in nontraditional safaris. In addition to Bisate at the top spot, there's another Rwandan lodge, One&Only Nyungwe House (No. 3), where the highlights are tracking chimpanzees, bird-watching, and visiting a tea plantation. "A gorgeous property in an incredible location," said one voter. And there's a second gorilla-tracking property on the list: Bwindi Lodge (No. 10), in Uganda. "How special to stay at Bwindi Lodge," wrote one guest, "and be so well cared for when setting out to see the magnificent gorillas."

At No. 2, Gibb's Farm is "the most unique lodge of any kind in East Africa," claimed one reader. Overlooking Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater, a protected area known for its incredible density of wildlife, the 17-cottage property offers activities around its coffee plantation and gardens, as well as bush walks from the property and wildlife drives in the crater. One guest loved that it was "fun for adults and kids." It's "an incredibly beautiful hotel," said another. "The food was amazing, and I loved the farm-to-table philosophy."

Classic safaris are still well represented, with guests favoring wildlife-rich areas such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, the Masai Mara reserve in Kenya, and the South African Kruger National Park. As well as wildlife sightings and luxurious rooms, it was the people who made an impact on T+L readers. Of andBeyond Bateleur Camp (No. 6), in Kenya's Masai Mara, one reader said that "the guides are truly spectacular," while another described "warm, welcoming service."

1. Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

On the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Bisate Lodge has six stylish and cozy villas, each overlooking the surrounding villages, forests, and misty mountain peaks. The main activity there is trekking into the national park to spend some time watching the mountain gorillas, but there are also opportunities to see golden monkeys, go hiking in the mountains, or visit the grave of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey. The staff are "amazing," said one reader, who added the food was "delicious," especially the homegrown vegetables. Another fan said staying at Bisate was "the absolute best...experience we have ever had. The food, service, and rooms were beyond amazing."

Score: 98.29

More information: wilderness-safaris.com

2 Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Score: 96.63

More information: gibbsfarm.com

3. One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

Score: 96.36

More information: oneandonlyresorts.com

4. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Score: 95.80

More information: andbeyond.com

5. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 94.95

More information: angama.com

6. andBeyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 94.88

7. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Score: 94.00

More information: fourseasons.com

8. andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 93.09

9. Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Score: 92.47

More information: more.co.za

10. Bwindi Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Score: 89.68

More information: volcanoessafaris.com

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First Safari - 13 night East Africa in July 2024 - Kenya Forum

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Here is our itinerary:

6th - Arrive in JRO at 7:30 am and have guide pick us up and drive straight to Tarangire for 2 nights at Tarangire Baobab Tented Camp or Tortilis Camp.

7th - Tarangire

8th - Drive to Ngorongoro Crater for 1 night at Oldeani Mountain Lodge or Tortilis Camp

9th - Drive or Fly? to Central Serengeti for 2 nights at Mawe Tented Camp or Tortilis Camp

10th - Central Serengeti

11th - Drive or Fly? to Northern Serengeti for 3 nights at Gnu Mara River Camp or Nyikani Migration Kogatende Camp

12th - Northern Serengeti

13th - Northern Serengeti

14th - Fly to Masai Mara, Kenya and stay in Naboisho Conservancy for 2 nights at Basecamp Wilderness or Encounter Mara Camp

15th - Mara

16th & 17th - Had planned to Fly to Amboseli, but now considering flying to Ol Pajeta Conservancy? We wanted to see Kili in Amboseli, but heard it is not as likely (and less accommodations that are available) and so we'd love to see Rhinos at Ol Pajeta for final park visit. This is our last big decision. The other alternative is to use the 2 days and add it to Mara and one other location, or Arusha in beginning.

18th - Fly to Nairobi for final night

19th - Nairobi sights until flight in evening

So, I'd love to get inputs on where the best spot would be for our last park - Amboseli or Ol Pajeta?

Inputs on these accommodations - good or bad?

Inputs on where we definitely need to fly and where we can drive. We are open to either.

Input on rest of itinerary as far as seeing the migration (I doubt it will be in Kenya in mid July, so I hope it will be in Northern Serengeti.

Last we are late in planning and will we be able to get necessary Visas in Tanzania and Kenya airports for each country?

Any suggestions for ending tour in Nairobi and some local great food for last dinner and lunch there?

Last, is anyone familiar with the Kenya TO Aardwolf Africa Sarai Adventures. They are registered in Kenya and have been great to work with so far and competitively priced. They just don't have many reviews, but the ones they have are great. I'd like to use them, but am just a little uneasy since they don't have lots of reviews.

Thanks so everyone. We are just anxious to get these last details resolved and finally booked.

4 replies to this topic

I can understand your dilemma; a broken arm is really messing with my safari schedule.

On your routing-

I think from a cost basis it makes sense to do the 6th-14th as a classic overland trip utilizing a single guide and vehicle. While there is a lot of driving, a lot of that time will also be game viewing. For example, going from the central Serengeti to the northern Serengeti.

How to spend those last 2 days- I like Amboseli; it’s a GOOD safari location. The problem is that you are going to spend the previous 9 days at GREAT safari destinations. I’ve been lucky enough to see Kili; it was nice but not earth-shattering.

I haven’t been to Ol Pejeta or Laikipia so can’t judge them. A lot of folks really enjoy their time there and the activities available.

I like to have a buffer day at the beginning of the trip. Traveling from the states to East Africa is tough; I need the rest-day to get acclimated. I don’t think it makes sense to spend my first expensive safari day jet-lagged. Others are fine rolling right into safari. I think it matters if you can sleep on the plane .

I say if the activities at Ol Pejeta really interest you go there otherwise use one or 2 of those days in the Serengeti or Mara.

I’ll chime in on your Ol Pejeta vs. Amboseli question because I think Visually has handled the rest wonderfully, and I agree with all of it (especially more time in Naboisho, I don’t think you’d regret that!)

I’ve been to both Amboseli and Ol Pejeta. Amboseli is outstanding for elephants. I haven’t had as good elephant sightings since I went there. However, what Visually says about Amboseli possibly being a letdown following other very very productive locations is very accurate. I was just in Ol Pejeta in January and loved it. I had been there on my first Kenyan safari several years ago and forgot how good it really is. I had strong sightings of the big 5 (yes even leopard!) and the rhino sightings were spectacular. A very very memorable trip. Add in the excursion to “meet” the last two northern white rhinos on the planet, and you have a great stop for those two days. I highly recommend Kicheche Laikipia in Ol Pejeta if they have availability. Great camp, great staff and a wonderful watering hole right at the common area with nonstop wildlife.

I don't think we need a day in Arusha at the beginning since we are stopping for 2 days in Paris when we get there for a little break in the flight schedule. So, I think we'll be fine to start the safari the first day - especially since we get in very early and will have some down time after lunch at Tarangire before the afternoon game drive. Of course, now I wish we had just one two more days for the safari, but our flights are already booked and I'm sure this is a common problem and I'm pretty happy with the time we have.

If all you want to see is rhinos, head back to Nairobi for that last day and do a couple of game drives in Nairobi National Park (which I love). NNP has a very healthy population of both black and white rhinos and guides who are there all the time know how to find them easily. If your budget allows, the Emakoko is a lovely place to decompress before you head home (and get those game drives in!)

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Kenya Hotels and Places to Stay

• A guide to some of the most popular tented camps and safari lodges
• What will the weather be like?