4.9 /5
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Based on over 1000 Verified Reviews.

Overview

Set on a remote island and accessible only by air, Jao Camp is situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta and ensures a private and secluded experience in a classic African wilderness. Built on several levels and decorated with local carvings and artwork, Jao Camp also features what is considered one of the best spas in Botswana and breath-taking scenery.

Head off in open 4x4 vehicles in search of the area's abundant wildlife: there is a wide range of savannah species, wetland specialists - like the endangered sitatunga antelope -  and predators such as lion, leopard and hyena, as well as excellent birding. Set out in the evening for a night drive to spot the area's more elusive nocturnal creatures, explore the Delta's never-ending waterways on a guided mokoro (dug-out canoe) or explore nearby islands on foot, one of the best way to soak up the Okavango Delta's astounding natural beauty from another angle.

Young guests are looked after as part of the Bush Buddy programme that is tailored to appeal pre-teens as as well teenagers with a range of age-appropriate safari activities.

Highlights

  • Remote island setting in a private concession
  • Fantastic game sightings, including rare sitatunga antelopes
  • Spacious & luxurious safari suites, individually decorated
  • Year-round water-based game activities
  • One of Botswana's best spas
  • Exceptional predator action
  • Bush Buddy programme for children

Activities

  • Bird watching
  • Boat excursions
  • Game drives
  • Guided walks
  • Mokoro trails
  • Night drives
  • Fishing
  • Picnics
  • Bush dining
  • Full-day safaris
  • Photographic safaris
  • Specialist guides
  • Star gazing
  • Sunset cruises
  • Guided walking safaris
Fantastic option for couples looking for a luxury bush stay, offering both land and water activities. The lodge has suprising creature comforts in the bush which includes spa treatments, a wine cellar and an entertainment room.
Ashley Gerrand

Ashley Gerrand

Africa Safari Expert

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Rooms

Standard Twin Tent

There are nine thatched tented rooms at Jao Camp, each raised on stilts and built under a canopy of trees.

Each spacious and luxurious suite includes a sleeping and sitting areas that flow through retractable glass doors onto a private deck.

The deck itself extends to a private sala and day bed, ideal for gazing out over the beautiful scenery and spotting wildlife. The en suite bathroom includes a vanity, flush toilet, a large bathtub and both indoor and outdoor showers.

Facilities

Built on two levels, the central lodge has a tranquil sitting area, library and well-stocked safari shop on the ground floor that leads onto an extensive deck arranged around the firepit. An elaborate wooden staircase leads to the upper deck that features another lounge, a bar and dining area, all with endless vistas of the surrounding wetlands.

Choose from two refreshing plunge pools, connected to the main area by wooden walkways, and be sure to indulge in a massage treatment at the well-equipped spa, discreetly hidden among shady trees. There is a small gym for active guests.

The Bush Buddy programme assigns a specially trained mentor to children aged six to 17. Not only do they receive welcome backpacks on arrival but they are also entertained and educated with a host of activities like Bushman Walks, tracking lessons and antlion trapping.

Dining

A light breakfast, gourmet brunch and delicious afternoon tea are served in the elevated dining room, surrounded by artwork and impressive views over the Okavango Delta. Bush breakfasts and picnics often await you deep in the wilderness.

Dinners are usually served under starry skies in the traditional boma where you can swap stories with other guests and guides over your 3-course meal. You may also choose to dine at your own table in the boma, or for an intimate and romantic dining experience, you may want to dine alfresco on your tent's private deck.

General facilities

  • Bar
  • Gym
  • Library
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Children's Club

Rates

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Dates Board Price
2022-06-01 — 2022-10-31 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $3,150
2022-11-01 — 2022-12-19 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $1,550
2022-12-20 — 2023-01-05 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $2,285
2023-01-06 — 2023-03-31 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $1,515
2023-04-01 — 2023-04-30 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $2,110
2023-05-01 — 2023-05-31 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $2,600
2023-06-01 — 2023-10-31 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $3,305
2023-11-01 — 2023-12-19 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $1,625
2023-12-20 — 2024-01-05 Fully Inclusive Plus (Meals, Beverages & Extras) $2,400

Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently. Please treat all pricing as a guide only:

  • All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice.
  • Single supplements may apply.
  • Request a quote or speak to one of our African Safari Experts for the best, most current rates available.
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Traveller Reviews

Jao Camp
BJ

Bob Jennings

"All of the camps we visited (Jao, Kalahari Sands, and King's Pool) were fantastic, the service and accommodations more than we expected, and the knowledgeable staff extremely helpful and informative."
GK

Gerben Kuijper

In Jao Camp we swapped cabins with one of the children since we originally were assigned the cabin furthest from the main building, which was somewhat demanding for old. Jao also has great wildlife although less so the 'cats' like Kings Camp. Going with the flatbottom boats through the channels created a whole new and adventurous experience. We bumped into a wading elephant and hippo, both of them as scared for us as we for them. We found a herd of some 40 elephants swimming from shore to shore, small crocs, you name it. Highlight was served lunch on a platform in the middle of nowhere, overlooking the delta. Couldn't be better.
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AOD

Alfonso O Donnell

For sure we have fantastic memories of the time we spent in Jao Camp. The people, the landscape, the wild life, the atmosphere, everything was unforgettable. We enjoyed every minute we spent there. Cedrick the game driver was incredible and was able to make an adventure of every game drive.
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AM

Alice Mott

"We didn't see as many animals at Jao, but the decor of the camp was really fun, and it was nice to have a water based camp, we all really enjoyed the boars."
TN

Tricia Neill

"We had the most wonderful time, Jao Camp was glorious, we felt truly spoiled and in the lap of luxury. We did every activity that there was on offer, the staff there were wonderful and all in all we had a great time."
CdV

Cristina de Villar

"Excellent even though they were having more water than expected for this time of the year."

Why travel with us

  • Independent experts since 1998
  • Our best price promise
  • Full service, flights included
  • Complete financial protection
  • 24/7 on-safari support
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