Old Drift Lodge | Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Escape to the ultimate luxury retreat at Old Drift Lodge, a haven nestled in the heart of the Zambezi National Park, upstream from the world-renowned Victoria Falls. Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, the lodge offers a pristine wilderness that spans over 56,000 hectares of natural beauty, teeming with wildlife. Whether it’s a game drive, river cruise, or a guided walking safari, guests can explore the park by road, river, or on foot.
Boasting a prime location only 4.5 kilometers from the town of Victoria Falls, Old Drift Lodge offers 10 double suites and 4 family suites, each uniquely designed with stylish furnishings that blend in perfectly with the natural environment. The spacious canvas en-suite rooms offer the perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic safari charm, featuring a private lounge, viewing deck, indoor and outdoor showers, plunge pool, and an outdoor bath with uninterrupted views of the Zambezi.
The main lodge area offers breathtaking 360-degree views, with the north facing onto the Zambezi and the south onto a waterhole, showcasing the lodge’s pristine natural surroundings. Old Drift Lodge is the perfect retreat for those seeking a luxurious safari experience while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
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Our luxurious canvas suites epitomise safari sophistication while offering guests a chance to return to life’s simple pleasures and meaningful moments with a romantic bath under the stars, private plunge pools frequented by thirsty elephants, and a beautiful view around every corner. The high ceilings and glass sliding doors create a seamless flow between the interior of the rooms and the beautiful natural surroundings. The suites feature an en-suite bathroom, four-poster king-size bed or twin beds with mosquito netting, a writing desk and chair, a comfortable lounge and mini bar, a tea and coffee station as well as an ice machine.
Welcome to the ultimate family retreat with our 4 luxurious Family Suites, thoughtfully designed to forge unforgettable memories together. We have four beautiful family suites, each with its own bathroom and entrance so that children and parents have their own space but easily visit each other without venturing into the bush. Our family suites sleep a maximum of four guests.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while soaking in breathtaking views from the outdoor bath, and create endless fun in your very own private plunge pool. Unwind in the exclusive lounge area, complete with a well-stocked tea/coffee station and mini bar. Stay refreshed and comfortable with the convenience of air conditioning and a soothing ceiling fan, guaranteeing a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay for your entire family.
Three of our standard luxury suites are equipped with star beds. The star beds are elevated on a platform adjacent to the suites, featuring four-poster beds elegantly poised above the River, with a higher vantage point to admire the exquisite view. Our star beds offer both convenience and luxury, located next to the suites so that guests can easily access the room facilities, from the minibar to the outdoor bathtub or the bathroom. Whether guests choose to enjoy the uninterrupted view on a cool afternoon, or sleep under the stars and wake up to a sunrise over the Zambezi River, the unique suites provide an extraordinary escape.
Our 14 luxurious tented suites are set along the banks of the Zambezi River, with beautiful views from the spacious deck, which boasts an outdoor shower, a private plunge pool and a claw-footed outdoor bathtub. The high ceilings and glass sliding doors create a seamless flow between the interior of the rooms and the beautiful natural surroundings. The suites feature an en-suite bathroom, four-poster king-size bed or twin beds with mosquito netting, a writing desk and chair, a comfortable lounge and mini bar, a tea and coffee station as well as an ice machine.
Our fourteen luxurious canvas suites epitomise safari sophistication while offering guests a chance to return to life’s simple pleasures and meaningful moments with a romantic bath under the stars, private plunge pools frequented by thirsty elephants, and a beautiful view around every corner. All our suites were designed with exclusivity and privacy in mind. The four family suites have interleading bedrooms, each with its own entrance and bathroom, creating a spacious but intimate and luxurious home away from home. Our family suites sleep a maximum of four guests.
There of our standard luxury suites boast their own star bed. Our star beds are elevated on a platform adjacent to the suites, featuring four-poster beds poised over the river, boasting incredible panoramic views from the higher vantage point. Our star beds offer both convenience and luxury, located next to the suites so that guests can easily access the room facilities, from the minibar to the outdoor bathtub or the bathroom. Whether guests choose to enjoy the uninterrupted view on a cool afternoon, or sleep under the stars and wake up to a sunrise over the Zambezi River, the unique suites provide an extraordinary escape.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fridge, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Massages, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Big 5, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fishing, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Horse Riding, Kayaking / Paddling, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Scenic Flights
A guided tour of “the Victoria Falls”, situated merely 7km from Old Drift Lodge, is included in the nightly rate, but excludes park fees, which are payable direct. This excursion can be booked in conjunction with a lunch at the Lookout Café.
Africa has an air of romance that sets her apart from anywhere else in the world. However, it is upon stepping into the Victoria Falls rainforest that guests are truly swept off their feet. There is no finer ambience than the gentle roar of the waterfall. The trees grow so closely together that their branches entwine, and their soft, wet drip across the stone path that weaves through this natural wonder. Submerge yourself in the fragrance of the fauna and the playful fauna in this enchanting and awe-inspiring space. A guided tour is included in the nightly rate, excluding park fees. Satisfy your wanderlust by visiting the more beautiful of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Morning and afternoon game drives in 4 x 4 game viewing vehicles will take you along the Zambezi River through the Zambezi National Park. Game that can be seen include elephants, buffalo, kudu, giraffe, zebra, eland, impala, warthogs, lion, wild dog and on occasions, cheetah. Tea baskets and snacks will be taken on the morning drives and Sundowners and snacks on the afternoon game drives.
Old Drift has two luxury 10 seater pontoon boats which will be used for morning and afternoon river safaris. Drinks and snacks will be provided on both safaris.
Morning and afternoon walking safaris will take place along the river but also in the spring lines of Zambezi National Park. Guests will be accompanied by a Professional Guide. Please note that children U 16 years are not permitted on walking safaris.
Guests have the option to enjoy a lunch at the Lookout Café, inclusive of drinks.
This can be booked in conjunction with the Tour of the Falls or for the adrenalin lovers, after they have taken part in any of the high wire activities that take place at the “Lookout”.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 14
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Zambezi Queen by Mantis | Chobe River Front Namibia
Luxury floating boutique hotel
Navigating the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen by Mantis is a 42-metre luxury floating boutique hotel that embodies sophistication in one of the planet’s most diverse landscapes. With our all-inclusive offering, guests can indulge in exceptional meals, beverages, and activities while enjoying diverse vantage points for authentic game viewing. Experience the beauty of the African wilderness in complete comfort and elegance.
Think of your time on the Zambezi Queen not as a mere river cruise, but as a floating boutique hotel that navigates the Chobe River, exploring its stunning surroundings throughout the day and returning to the same point each evening.
Embark on a uniquely African adventure with uninterrupted views of the Chobe National Park, home to over 120,000 elephants and many other remarkable wildlife.
With a guest-to-crew ratio of 3 to 2, the Zambezi Queen delivers an exceptional level of personal service and attention. The floating boutique hotel features 10 suites, averaging 155 sq ft (14.4 sq meters), and 4 luxury suites, averaging 165 sq ft (15.3 sq meters).
All with private balconies so you can soak up the Chobe River breeze and appreciate the endless views of the unique African landscape beyond.
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From the moment you step on-board the Zambezi Queen, it becomes apparent that no expense was spared in creating one of the world’s most unique river safari experiences. Equipped with 10 tasteful and luxurious suites - all suites come with en-suite bathrooms (shower only) and full length sliding shutters for both privacy and protection from the sun.
Hairdryers, toiletries, gowns and slippers are provided for your comfort, while electronic safes in each room are ideal for storing your valuables. All suites accommodate two adults, and two of the larger suites can take a maximum of three adults. Suites can be configured with either one king-sized bed or two single beds.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Shower, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
While both types of suites let you relax in a luxurious setting, our four Luxury Suites are slightly bigger, and have larger balconies that house two deckchairs and a table. Our Luxury Suites also feature both side and front sliding doors for a truly panoramic view of your surroundings.
Two of the Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed and can accommodate up to three adults each.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Bath Towels, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Safe, Shower, Vanity Cabinet
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Game Viewing, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, River Cruises, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Discover a new level of relaxation with the Zambezi Queen Spa -where curated treatments and river reviews come together in perfect harmony. Inspired by the rhythms of the Chobe, our spa offers a tranquil space to unwind and reconnect with nature, adding a gentle touch of indulgence to your river safari experience.
Staying on board the Zambezi Queen is like being on a permanent game viewing vehicle, but with a much higher comfort factor. Situated in the heart of the Chobe region with access to river frontage of the Chobe National Park, we also offer water-based game drives by tender boat, allowing you to experience the enormous diversity and concentration of wildlife up even closer.
Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities though, as you watch the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season. Catch sight of huge herds of elephant as they swim across the water, as well as buffalo, lion, crocodile, lechwe, puku, giraffe, zebra, sable, kudu and the occasional leopard as they gather to quench their thirst at watering holes. Besides animal life, you’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you listen to the sounds of a hippo grunting and breathe in the sweet smell of African grass.
No trip to the Chobe is complete without trying your hand at a fishing safari where if you’re lucky, you may even catch a tiger fish. One of the greatest fighting fish in the world, the tiger fish is the most sought after prize of these waters and is known for its ferocious spirit. It's not all about tiger fish though. You may also hook one of the many bream species, African pike, tilapia, catfish or upper Zambezi yellowfish as you explore over 100 kms of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, as well as the winding Kasai Channel and thrilling Chobe and Mambova rapids.
We offer both conventional equipment as well as flyfishing equipment for our fishing safaris, because we know that the area is renowned worldwide for its flyfishing. We supply rods, flies, lures, lines, leaders and reels and all equipment is included in our rate.
Because of our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember. Land an eight pounder or more and earn bragging rights for years to come, as you enjoy a fishing trip that's second to none.
With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population sometimes by 20% compared to the winter months. From December through to March birdlife on the Chobe is extremely busy and the colourful breeding plumage on display is an extraordinary sight.
Experienced birders and even eager amateurs will delight in spotting distinct birds such as African skimmers, rock pratincoles and the African finfoot, either through their binoculars or with the naked eye. Having access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat lets you spend many hours on your birding safari also viewing cattle egrets, fish eagles, open-billed storks, lesser-striped swallows, pied kingfishers and the striking carmine bee-eater. The slow drift of the tender boat means that you won’t disturb the peaceful silence and can also get up close to the birds and observe their fascinating behaviour.
Uninterrupted access to wild animals. Absolute silence. Golden light. The Chobe River is an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. To help you capture that perfect moment, our custom-designed photographic safari boats are available on request and cater for 6 clients in individual photographic seats. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras of all types and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.
Bring your own photographic equipment as we don’t supply this - the optimal lens to bring is an 80 - 400mm zoom. Because this is a water-based safari, you'll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment, being able to view the animals in the Chobe National Park surrounded by that magical golden light Africa is renowned for.
One of the best ways to learn more about a country is to experience its culture. A village tour while on board the Zambezi Queen will take you by tender boat to a local Namibian village called Ijambwe, situated on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including their daily challenges and traditions.
Bar, Lounge and Dining
Dining Room
Our dining room offers a peaceful corner to share an intimate dinner, or gather to share tales over culinary dishes. Enjoy three hearty meals a day, starting with a continental or cooked breakfast. Indulge in a buffet lunch and end the day with a four-course plated dinner, complemented by drinks and light snacks in between.
Bar
Golden hour and beyond, settle in as the sun dips beneath the Chobes’ horizon. Enjoy a selection of Southern Africa’s finest wines, a delicious cocktail mixed with precision and flare, or an ice-cold lager served with the friendliest smile and snacks.
Lounge
For the best views, join us on the upper deck. Find a spot to relax in the lounge, on the bow or stern - each area offers a spectacular view of the Chobe River and unobstructed views of the unique African landscape, through the large floor to ceiling glass sliding doors.
Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but we ask that you specify this when you book - our remote location means that we need a bit of time to source ingredients that may be out of the ordinary.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Tea, Coffee and Soft Drinks Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Zarafa Camp | Selinda Reserve
Zarafa Camp is an intimate, four room exquisite tented suite camp located on the Selinda Reserve in northern Botswana, an area linking the Okavango Delta and the Chobe/Savute corridors. Its villa, the Dhow Suite at Zarafa, consist of two tented suites and private main area and operates entirely independently of main camp. Few camps rival the location of this little gem, Botswana’s first and only Relais & Chateaux property. Overlooking the crystal waters Zibadianja Lagoon, the source of the famous Savute Channel, every area of camp has a magnificent view. The lagoon is also the water source for a tremendous population of wildlife – dry season sightings boast buffalo and elephant by the hundreds. Zarafa Camp and The Dhow Suite at Zarafa are the brainchild of the founders of Great Plains Conservation, who pooled their collective experience on safari to create what they deemed to be the best and most environmentally innovative camp. Zarafa has succeeded in successfully in retaining a clearly African feel, while balancing that delicate relationship between personal and informal and romance and adventure. Zarafa Camp has no equal in terms of its environmental credentials and its careful appointments.
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Suites
Zarafa Camp is designed with exclusivity and privacy at its core. Each suite is positioned on the forest's edge, rimming the shores of the floodplains and far from a neighbour. The 305 square metre marquis style' canvas guest suites are expansive and open-air without exposing guests to the elements. Each of the three spaces of the suite is decorated with custom-made furniture, handcrafted from recycled ancient hardwoods. The raised decks, constructed of recycled African railroad sleepers, form the tent's foundation.
Upon entry is a large lounge appointed with a leather sofa, armchairs, personal bar and writing desk. Adjoining the lounge is the main bedroom and dressing area. Exiting the bedroom, a beautiful copper gas fireplace is strategically placed between the bathroom and the bedroom to allay the chill of the winter months. The main bathroom is comprised of a copper bath and shower, double sinks and private toilet. Off the bathroom, the raised walkway leads to the outdoor shower, complete with wrap around showerheads! The private verandah, running the length of the front of the suite, offers a private plunge pool, outdoor lounge and sweeping view of Zibadianja Lagoon's waters.
Each tent comes with its own professional camera body and zoom lenses for use during a stay. Photos are then downloaded as a souvenir at the end of your stay.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed
The Dhow Suite at Zarafa
The Dhow Suite at Zarafa, an immense 210 square metres (2,260 sq ft) in extent, is under beige, flowing canvas, with canopy ceilings and completely open (yet netted) sides. Entering through the heavy wood Lamu door transports guests to a lavish space of deep reds, browns, brass and copper, evoking richness and beauty. Central to The Dhow Suites are a full lounge and dining area fitted dining table, coffee table with cappuccino machine and a full-length leather couch and chairs. Two large bedrooms are connected to either side of the main area designed with an open layout bathroom with impressive copper claw foot bath, indoor shower, separate loo and double basins and even an open fire, with copper flue, to heat the room in winter. A large decking area fronts onto the suites with a 5 x 2.5 metre swimming pool, exercise bike and outdoor showers for each room, all with views of pristine Botswana wilderness. The adjoining main camp has a curio shop for those who need retail therapy and an in-room massage is also available.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Lounge, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Queen Bed, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Library, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Fireplace, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Massages, Night Drives, Practice Green, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Helicopter Rides
With a maximum of just eight guests, Zarafa Camp offers complete flexibility. Drives do focus on the most comfortable and productive times of day, early morning and late afternoon, but full day drives are also quite common at a guest’s request. Picnic brunch can be delivered, and the vehicles are stocked with cold drinks. The camp has two custom built Land Cruisers specially designed for our conditions and photography (fold-down screens, raised roofs, photographic bars, multi-plug invertors) with seven individual bucket seats.
Another huge benefit of staying within the conservancies is the ability to appreciate the stunning landscape on foot, peacefully, without the noise of engines. We highly recommend this unforgettable experience. Talk to the managers to arrange a good time and location for a walk. Usually early morning or evening is the best time, as the middle of the day is too hot to venture out of the shade. Wear good
walking shoes, a hat, and neutral coloured clothing so as not to alarm the wildlife, and take binoculars. Your guide will have water for you. Walks are led by licensed guides with firearm training.
The HES Zib, Zarafa’s special pontoon boat, is an utterly unique experience. The 275 sq. foot deck is complete with couches, a dining area and bar where guests can comfortably enjoy floating brunch or sundowners while watching hippos and elephants in the water. It is also an exceptional platform for birding. (Water-level dependent)
Each of Zarafa’s guest suites has a professional camera set, including a camera body and lenses. Photos will be downloaded to a DVD on guest’s departure. Each suite comes with a pair of high-quality binoculars for guest use as well. For stargazers, each room comes with its own telescope for use on each suite's private deck.
A full syllabus of bush craft skills for our young explorers. This is a complimentary program that follows in the footsteps of National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence, Dereck and Beverly Joubert. An extensive pack will be provided to eager children on arrival, so they can learn about animal calls, how to track wildlife, and other facts and figures about the wild. At the end of a child’s stay, he/she will become a Young Explorer and Conservation Ambassador - ready to go out and tell the world about what they have learned and what they too can do to help protect this beautiful environment.
Fly-fishing and rod/reel kit is available for those who want to try their cast at the local fish (except January and February when there is a moratorium on fishing).
Explore the lagoon and channels around the area by flat-bottomed power boat. (Seasonal and water level dependent)
The Spa at Zarafa is located between suite 4 and the Dhow Suite. The Spa offers guests two treatment
areas and with a range of treatments available. Spa treatments are at an additional cost.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Tea, Coffee and Soft Drinks Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Other
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 4
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Jacana Camp | Okavango Delta
Jacana Camp offers a classic, water-focused Okavango Delta safari in the heart of the Jao Reserve. Set on a remote island in the expansive Jao Flats, the camp is surrounded by seasonally flooded plains, papyrus swamps and crystal-clear channels, where the annual inundation shapes both the landscape and wildlife movements.
With just five spacious en-suite tents, each featuring an outdoor shower and elevated wooden deck, Jacana provides an intimate and authentic Delta experience. The camp is particularly renowned for exceptional birdlife, including Pel’s fishing owl, African and lesser jacana, slaty egret and African pygmy goose, alongside red lechwe, hippo and elephant that thrive in this water-rich ecosystem.
While predominantly water-based, offering boating, mokoro excursions and seasonal fishing. Jacana also provides year-round game drives via dedicated access to nearby larger islands, ensuring a well-rounded safari experience in all seasons.
INSIDER’S TIP: Early morning mokoro excursions offer the most magical Delta perspective, drift quietly through lily-lined channels while scanning the trees for Pel’s fishing owl.
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Standard Twin/Double Tents
Jacana’s five elevated tented suites are set on raised wooden decks overlooking the surrounding floodplains and papyrus-lined channels of the Jao Flats. Designed to blend seamlessly into the watery landscape, the spacious canvas tents combine classic safari charm with understated comfort.
Each en-suite tent features an outdoor shower and a private viewing deck, allowing guests to remain closely connected to the rhythms of the Delta. During flood season, water often surrounds the camp, creating an immersive island experience with wildlife and birdlife visible from the comfort of the deck.
Raised wooden walkways link the tents to the main dining, lounge and pool areas, which sit beneath towering sycamore fig trees and offer expansive views across the seasonal floodplains. The elevated design enhances privacy while maximising the camp’s tranquil, water-dominated setting.
Property Facilities
Bar, Pool
Room Facilities
Electrical Outlets, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Mokoro Excursion, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
Glide seamlessly along the waterways of Wilderness Jacana in a mokoro (a traditional dug-out canoe) and spot some of the fascinating creatures of the Delta – maybe even hippo and crocodile – as well as the wealth of waterbirds of the region.
* Water levels permitting.
Boating through the waterways to the east of camp allow for good game viewing along the channels.
* Water levels permitting.
Seasonal fishing with a limited supply of basic equipment (spinner rods and a small range of lures) is offered on a catch and release basis.
* Note that fishing is seasonal as it is prohibited by Botswana law in January and February due to breeding purposes.
Land-based game drives are offered when the inundation levels are lower, typically in the summer months. These drives can reveal the likes of elephant, zebra and other plains game, as well as the potential sightings of predators of the area such as lions, hyaenas, and African wild dogs.
Birding is excellent here with plenty of 'Okavango specials’ including the Pel’s fishing-owl and Endangered wattled crane.
Get your feet on the ground and enjoy a walk through the wilds of the Jao Reserve.
* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide, therefore pre-booking is essential.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Tea, Coffee and Soft Drinks Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 5
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife