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Botswana is home to two of Africa’s most popular safari destinations: the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. And then there are hidden gems like the Kalahari and Linyanti. Teeming with an array of wildlife and possessing a diverse landscape that ranges from lush riverine forests to striking salt pans, Botswana is a safari-lovers paradise.
The Delta is considered one of nature’s greatest masterpieces. This World Heritage Site provides plenty of opportunities to see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) in a virtually untouched ecosystem. Chobe is home to one of the largest concentrations of game in the world and offers breathtaking views of the glistening Chobe River – the perfect place to end your days with a slow cocktail sunset cruise. The diversity of both regions’ landscapes allows guests to explore their wonders on land or on the winding waterways.
Whether land- or water-based, if you’re planning a safari adventure in Botswana, you’ll need a place to stay. To make life a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite 20 luxury lodges and camps in some of the country’s safari hotspots:
1. Jao Camp
Tucked away on a remote island only accessible by air in the heart of the Okavango Delta sits the opulent Jao Camp. The camp is built on several levels, elevating into the tree canopy of the jungle-like landscape. Its unique design incorporates natural elements of thatch and wood to create an architectural marvel like no other. Suites are individually decorated, boasting floor-to-ceiling glass panels overlooking the lush surroundings, contemporary and stylish furnishings, as well as local carvings and artworks that lend to the sophisticated air.
Highlights:
- Remote island setting in a private concession
- Romantic star-bed for a night under the stars (seasonal)
- Land- and water-based safaris
- Scenic helicopter rides
- Home to one of Botswana’s best spas
Best for…
Family getaways.
2. Chief’s Camp
The epitome of ‘safari chic’, Chief’s Camp offers a tranquil luxury escape in the heart of the Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve. Experience an authentic African safari without foregoing the creature comforts you’re accustomed to. Superb service, opulent lodgings featuring spectacular views of the Piajio floodplain and 5-star facilities are complemented by guaranteed predator action and Big 5 sightings. There’s no better place to experience the wilderness at its most raw and untamed.
Highlights:
- Located on the largest island in the Delta
- Seasonal mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Black & white rhino sightings
- Dedicated children’s play area
Best for…
Family holidays & romantic getaways.
3. Mombo Camp
Authentic tented safari camping at its most comfortable, Mombo camp affords a more traditional under-canvas safari experience in the world-famous Okavango Delta floodplains. Setting it apart from any other camp in the region, Mombo prides itself on customer satisfaction and love of the job. The personalised service ensures your every need is anticipated, while the friendly, expert guides’ passion for wildlife is evident on every game drive. Care and devotion to guests’ experience is seen in everything that the camp provides – something that makes all the difference when on safari.
Highlights:
- Reliable Big 5 and big cat sightings
- One of Condé Nast’s 2020 Gold List winners
- Photography hide
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Excellent personalised service & friendly expert guides
Best for…
Honeymoons & family holidays.
4. Eagle Island Lodge
Experience a safari like no other at Eagle Island Lodge. Situated on the Delta’s Xaxaba Island, this timeless luxury lodge offers Africa’s ultimate water-based experiences. Eagle Island Lodge ditches the 4X4 vehicles in favour of motor boats, barge cruises and mokoro safaris to get you up-close to the elephants, buffalo, hippo, crocodiles and big cats that call this area home.
Highlights:
- Exclusive luxury water-focused camp
- Horseback & helicopter safaris
- Variety of water-based safaris (seasonal)
- Fish Eagle Bar located on the water
Best for…
Honeymoons & romantic getaways.
5. San Camp
San Camp turns the middle of nowhere into a tranquil haven for those seeking a heavenly retreat closed off from the rest of the world. Romantic billowing white tents are shaded by palm trees and surrounded by the rolling golden grasslands and salt pans of the Kalahari Desert. The seasonal camp (November to March) makes the most of the dry season in Makgadikgadi Pans, putting a strong emphasis on the dramatic views of the game-rich savannah and salt pans, which can be explored in a variety of ways, including by quad bike (ATV) and horseback.
Highlights:
- Explore the salt pans by quad bike or horseback
- Fresh, innovative cuisine
- Interact with meerkats
- Walk with Bushmen
- Tented yoga & meditation pavilion
Best for…
Romantic getaways.
6. Selinda Camp
Resting elegantly on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, Selinda Camp takes its décor inspiration from the elements. This influence of earth, fire, wind and water has resulted in a unique and contemporary design that incorporates the traditional African safari elements of thatch, wood and canvas. But the luxury lodgings and breathtaking views of the Selinda Reserve’s endless vistas are not the only drawcards this camp has to offer. Avid photographers delight not only in the hide that offers the perfect vantage point from which to capture the roaming wildlife but also in the specially designed game vehicles that ensure you snap the perfect shot.
Highlights:
- Striking & unique architecture
- Photography hide
- Speciality photography game vehicles
- Reliable sightings of African wild dogs & Selinda Lion Pride
- Walking safaris & boating excursions
Best for…
Avid photographers & group vacations.
7. King’s Pool Camp
True to its name, King’s Pool Camp exudes an air of grandeur with resplendent design and décor fit for royalty. Overlooking the glistening waters of King’s Pool Lagoon in the game-rich Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, this 5-star camp offers an authentic African safari experience without foregoing modern-day luxury. Open, airy suites are tastefully decorated with local artwork, while thatch and wood are used to create an elegant design that subtly reminds guests that they are in the thick of nature.
Highlights:
- Walking safaris & boating excursions
- Luxury suites overlooking a beautiful lagoon
- Reliable predator sightings, especially wild dogs & hyenas
- Scenic helicopter flights over Linyanti
Best for…
Family & group getaways.
8. Tuludi Camp
Hidden away in the legendary Khwai Private Concession and built in partnership with the local community, Tuludi Camp is the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of the Okavango Delta. After a day of seeing leopards, elephants and lions in their natural habitat, retire to the sophisticated and stylish camp to take in the awe-inspiring views of the rolling grassland from a hanging chair beneath the boughs of an acacia tree.
Highlights:
- Mokoro & boat safaris
- Private guide & vehicle with a family suite
- Reliable big game viewing
- Walking safaris & night drives
Best for…
Families & couples.
9. Chobe Game Lodge
A regal atmosphere emphasised by Moorish architecture and resplendent décor, Chobe Game Lodge invites guests to experience one of Africa’s premier safari destinations in the lap of luxury. Exceptional views of the wildlife-frequented Chobe River are complemented by the contemporary design and opulent comforts offered by the lodge. Coupled with outstanding service and fine dining of the highest standard, you’ll forget that you’re in the untamed wilderness and not an upscale hotel.
Highlights:
- 5-star lodge in one of Africa’s prime safari parks
- Guaranteed elephant sightings
- Sunset cruises on the Chobe River
- Eco-friendly electric safari boats
Best for…
Family & group getaways.
10. Chobe Chilwero
Overlooking the winding Chobe River and never-ending bushland, Chobe Chilwero is a luxurious riverside retreat bordering the renowned Chobe National Park. Whether it be by cruising slowly down the river in a boat or traversing the plains in a safari vehicle, guests will enjoy exceptional game viewing of some of the most sought-after animals, including buffalo, hippo, lion, wild dog and leopard. And, of course, you’re guaranteed to see the Kalahari elephants for which the park is renowned.
Highlights:
- Guaranteed elephant sightings
- Tour of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
- Spa includes a treetop treatment room
- Photography safari cruise on Chobe River
- Kids’ safari programme
Best for…
Family holidays.
11. Camp Moremi
Enjoy a classic African safari at Camp Moremi with all the luxuries of modern life. Unplug from the world at this secluded luxury haven, staying in elegant thatch-and-canvas safari tents that lend to the authenticity of a classic safari from yesteryear. Experience game drives through Moremi Game Reserve and sunset cruises on Xakanaxa Lagoon, spotting leopards lying in Mopane trees while elephants frolic on the riverbank.
Highlights:
- Exceptional views of the Xakanaxa Lagoon
- Boating safaris
- Hands-on staff that go the extra mile
- Remote & private luxury lodge
Best for…
Romantic getaways.
12. Okuti Camp
Okuti Camp is a tranquil getaway in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve. The unique domed suites are constructed of reeds, wood and canvas (aptly called masasas, meaning ‘house of reeds’). Don’t be fooled by the simple exterior, though. Each suite has a lavish interior with comfortable furnishings. Elevated on wooden decks, rooms overlook the peaceful Maunachira channel and Moremi’s lush wetlands. The view is guaranteed to bring guests a sense of serenity that only nature can provide.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of the Maunachira River
- Domed suites built with reeds
- Explore the Delta by motorboat
- Wheelchair-friendly
- Custom safari vehicles maximise views on game drives
- Birders paradise
Best for…
Avid birders, families & couples.
13. Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
Sandibe’s architecture resembles that of a giant-scaled pangolin at rest, hidden away deep in the Okavango Delta among the forest canopy and winding waterways. From the opulent setting and breathtaking views to the hands-on service and interactive dining experiences, Sandibe won’t leave you wanting anything. Whether it’s taking a dip in the plunge pool or spotting elephants and lions in the wild on a game drive, your expectations will be exceeded at every turn.
Highlights:
- Unique architectural design
- WILDchild kids’ programme
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Interactive kitchen
- Night drives & bush walks
Best for…
Family holidays.
14. Sanctuary Baines’ Camp
If you’re looking for a classic African safari experience with a more romantic twist, look no further than Sanctuary Baines’ Camp. The elegantly stylish camp offers couples the chance to enjoy each other’s company through a variety of intimate activities, from slow sunset mokoro rides on the Delta waterways to candle-lit dates under the Milky Way and nights in the star bath and sky bed.
Highlights:
- Seasonal mokoro & motorboat excursions
- Eco-friendly camp built from recycled cans
- Sky beds & star baths for experiences under the night sky
- Scenic helicopter flights
Best for…
Honeymoons & romantic getaways.
15. Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp
Inspired by the abundant water lilies of the Delta’s waterways, Xaranna’s resplendent setting is dominated by varying shades of olive green, lily pink and chic yellow. A quiet, tranquil haven in Botswana’s famous safari gem, Xaranna is the ideal place for families and couples to escape the crowds and experience the wonders of nature in absolute comfort.
Highlights:
- Seasonal mokoro & boat rides
- Scenic helicopter flights & horseback rides
- Exclusive lodge away from the crowds
- Child-friendly with kids’ entertainment
Best for…
Families & couples.
16. Vumbura Plains
Beach house meets log cabin in the middle of the African wilderness at Vumbura Plains. As airy and light as if it were near a sandy shoreline, but with plenty of woodwork, the camp has a laidback, calming atmosphere. Only when you step onto the elevated deck to take in the striking views of the Delta’s floodplain do you recall that you’re on safari in the heart of the African bush.
Highlights:
- Reliable predator sightings
- Boating, mokoro rides & helicopter flights
- Hot-air ballooning (April to September)
- Night drives & guided bush walks
Best for…
Family getaways & groups.
17. Abu Camp
Hidden away in a lush riverine forest surrounded by open floodplains, Abu Camp centres its experiences and encounters around the majestic world of the African elephant. In fact, the luxury camp goes so far as to take its name from a special bull elephant. From the light grey tones of opulently designed suites to close-up encounters with the gentle giants of the resident herd, Abu Camp treats guests to an unforgettable experience that they will cherish forever.
Highlights:
- Close-up encounters with the resident elephants
- Star-bed sleepouts under the night sky
- Water-based safaris
- Helicopter trips
Best for…
Group vacations & romantic getaways.
18. Xigera Safari Lodge
Xigera Safari Lodge offers all the glamour and comforts of a 5-star hotel. Surrounded by the tranquil riverine forest and glistening floodplains of the Okavango Delta, Xigera ensures guests are able to unwind in the lap of luxury. From world-class treatments at the spa to fresh, gourmet meals that would satisfy Michelin-star chefs, the safari experience at Xigera is incomparable to any other.
Highlights:
- Water-based safaris
- Photography safaris
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Living art gallery, fine dining & wellness centre
Best for…
Romantic getaways.
19. Little Tubu Camp
Little Tubu Camp gives guests an exclusive and intimate safari experience deep in the Delta. Hidden away on a remote island in the Jao Private Concession, Little Tubu has only three elegantly decorated traditional canvas tents, raised on stilted wooden decks overlooking the spectacular landscape. With a maximum capacity of six guests, you’ll leave the crowds behind and have the freedom to explore one of Africa’s safari hotspots at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Exclusive & romantic luxury camp with only 3 tents
- Platform hide for game viewing & sleepouts under the stars
- Seasonal boat & mokoro safaris
- Night drives & guided bush walks
Best for…
Group getaways & couples.
20. Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
Nxabega Camp fashions simple and rustic yet elegant and contemporary wood-and-canvas suites overlooking the verdant landscape of mopane woodlands and flooded grassland. Offering the highest level of comfort and service, Nxabega provides everything that you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. From the freshly prepared gourmet meals and in-house barista serving you at the coffee bar to the hanging daybed inviting you to unwind in nature with a good book after a day of game drives, there’s no place like Nxabega.
Highlights:
- Seasonal mokoro & boating excursions
- Scenic helicopter flights over the Delta
- Reliable Big 5 & giraffe sightings
- Catch-and-release fishing
- WILDchild programme for kids
Best for…
Families & couples.
