Wilderness Jao

Highlights

• Set in the heart of the Okavango Delta, where riverine forests and vast floodplains meet.
• Unleash your sense of adventure as the endlessly dynamic waters invite amazing experiences – from boating safaris to thrilling game drives and full-day island excursions.
• Explore Hunda Island by boat or by vehicle, and marvel at the prolific wildlife and pristine wilderness that stretches in all directions.

Destination: Surrounded by riverine forests and vast floodplains, Wilderness Jao is the archetypal Okavango Delta camp and a lush haven for wildlife. The camp (rebuilt in 2019, in its same picturesque location), isan architectural masterpiece designed to flow with nature and delight at every turn.

Guests may choose between five expansive safari suites, or two ultra-luxe villas with private plunge pools and their own private butlers, chefs, guides and vehicles. This is the perfect Delta hideaway for small groups, families or couples.  

Experience: Jao invites you in to explore by boat, (when the waters rise), vehicle or on guided nature walks. Go in search of wildlife on game drives on Hunda Island where predator and prey encounters abound. Capture wonderful photos of elephants, hippos and countless antelopes. Glide silently in a mokoro (fibreglass ‘dugout’ canoe) and immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy a surprise outdoor breakfast alongside a herd of zebras; or sundowners while floating down the Delta; have a thrilling sleep-out in the Star Bed under a chandelier of stars. Catch-and-release fishing, nature walks, glorious spa treatments, all served with immaculate attention to detail and warm hospitality, complete the ultimate guest experience.

Purpose: Keep your ears open for a hundred different bird calls. Spy a tiny painted reed frog, or elephants padding silently past camp. Follow lions across the floodplains. We work tirelessly for the conservation of the Okavango Delta and its unique ecosystem – the waters and the dry land, and the plants, birds and wildlife that call it home.  

Wildlife: Untamed and unfenced, the game viewing here is spectacular. Spot huge herds of red lechwe, followed by their primary predator – lions. Marvel at iconic African animals like elephants, buffalos, leopards, tsessebe, zebras, hippos, crocodile and the rare sitatunga. Look out for Meyer's parrot, African harrier hawk, black heron, coppery-tailed coucal, and black crake – just a few of the avian treasures that call the Delta home.

Wilderness Jao: The camp is a sculptural marvel of natural and recycled materials – of steel, wood, and glass. Jao boasts towering, spacious interiors that embrace the light and the bush and feature striking design elements, curated to create the ultimate African safari experience. 

Guests can look forward to the highest standards of luxury in the five expansive suites and two ultra-luxe villas. Each was individually handcrafted and is furnished with vintage-style fittings and a sala for afternoon siestas. 

Built into the towering trees, the elaborate two-storey main area continues to impress. It includes a striking gallery-museum and library, an impressive wine cellar and traditional boma for dining under the stars. One of the camp’s signature design features is the marvellous bird’s nest-styled pool gazebo on the edge of the water. The perfect spot for guests to unwind and soak in the glorious views. Our award-winning spa offers a wide range of soothing massage therapies. 

At night, the romantic Star Bed invites a once-in-a-lifetime experience – a night in the wilderness*.

* Please note this is a seasonal option when water levels permit.