Wilderness Jao | Okavango Delta






































In the heart of the Okavango, luxurious Wilderness Jao is set amongst islands fringed with riverine forests and vast, floodplains with prolific wildlife. Shaded by a canopy of trees, the five spacious suites and two ultra-luxe villas offer en-suite facilities with both indoor and outdoor showers. Expansive views from the private sala at each suite make for a sumptuous setting for afternoon siestas.
Customised luxury guest suites and two ultra-luxe villas share Jao Island with the spectacular main area, which features a pool, a library and an outdoor boma for evenings of traditional food, song and dance. The views of the night skies over Wilderness Jao cement its place in the safari firmament as a star among equals.
INSIDER'S TIP: Make the most of the many luxuries offered such as the beautiful star bed sleep-out or a visit to the spa to feel utterly restored.
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 7
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Light and spacious, each suite looks out onto swaying reeds, waterlilies and endless views of the floodplains. Inside, the furnishings in each spacious room have been hand-crafted and curated, adding an authentic touch throughout. The soft colour palette of creams, greens, purple, and splashes of yellow, is inspired by the abundant waterlily found in the Delta, and adds to the sense of calm and peace.










Perfect for families or small groups, the two supremely luxurious and tastefully decorated villas each comprise two identical tents (four beds in total). Each has its own en suite facilities, and a spacious lounge and dining area, a kitchenette (with private chef), fire deck and private plunge pool, as well as a private vehicle, guide and private butler. Large folding doors and mosquito gauze make up the front wall so guests can enjoy more of the wonderful view.
The accommodation is a sculptural marvel of natural and recycled materials.













Property Facilities
Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fireplace, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Sala, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
There is no better way of viewing the Delta and its wildlife than adventuring by traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). Drift across Botswana's Okavango floodplains, the world's largest freshwater, inland delta. The riverine forest surrounding Wilderness Jao are ideal for spotting smaller creatures amongst the papyrus reeds.
* Water levels permitting.




A boating excursion allows us to reach and explore the more distant waterways and clear, deep channels. Explore the iconic Delta floodplains at Wilderness Jao.
* Water levels permitting.









Fishing with a limited supply of basic equipment (spinner rods and a small range of lures) is on offer seasonally 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.



Morning and afternoon game drives are offered in open 4x4 vehicles, and reveal the spectacular wildlife diversity of the vast floodplains. Traverse the iconic Jao Reserve in search of game ranging from the elusive Pel’s fishing-owl, to the infamous ‘Jao Mafia’ mongoose gang, to a myriad of big cats, to co-habiting crocodiles and hippos, to a multitude of antelope species, buffalo, and elephant herds.





Night drives with spotlights allow you to find those nocturnal animals you wouldn’t see during the day. Please note that during high water levels, night drives are not possible.



Wilderness Jao rests under a fantastic tree canopy on its own remote island, surrounded by a watery garden of channels, reeds, and lilies. A 45 minute boat ride from Wilderness Jao, you can enjoy a full-day game drive, along with a picnic, on wildlife-rich Hunda Island.



Tucked away in amongst palms for privacy, overlooking lush waterways, the Wilderness Jao Spa is an exquisite setting from where you can rest, relax and feel utterly restored. A full menu of therapies from facials to manicures, and a range of signature massage options, may be experienced. A treatment is bound to further inspire guests to fully appreciate Wilderness Jao's extraordinary holistic offering.




Stay active and energised amid the wild beauty Jao. The well-equipped gym (treadmill, elliptical trainer, punch bag for boxing, stationary exercise bicycle, exercise mats, medicine ball, skipping ropes and a range of free weights) is a haven for a refreshing workout with a view of the magnificent floodplains.



A fascinating feature at Wilderness Jao is the museum and gallery, with its emphasis on learning and knowledge sharing of the area and its denizens, from a metres high giraffe skeleton, to geographical maps. In addition, a series of botanical pressings by EE Galpin, known as the 'Prince of Collectors' and one of the pre-eminent botanists of his time, is beautifully showcased here. In fact, he was the great-grandfather of Cathy Kays, co-owner of Wilderness Jao. Included is a fascinating history of the Kays family, who have been rooted in Botswana since the 19th century and today based in Maun, operating Ngamiland Adventure Safaris (NAS) and other ventures.



Wilderness Mombo | Mombo Concession












































Wilderness Mombo, on Mombo Island just off the northern tip of Chief’s Island, is built under large shady trees and overlooks a wonderful floodplain teeming with wildlife.
Accommodation comprises eight spacious suites raised off the ground, all built to maximise the vistas over the plains. Each tent is elegantly furnished, complete with en-suite bathroom, a dressing area, indoor and outdoor showers; as well as a bathtub that creates a sense of indulgence. The expanded deck includes a sala and plunge pool.
A large living and dining area looks out over that same view, while Wilderness Mombo’s famous traditional dinners are hosted in the nearby boma. Wilderness Mombo shares a Safari Boutique, spa, gym and lap pool with Wilderness Little Mombo. Large concentrations of plains game often occur in front of camp, and you may see a variety of animals without even leaving the veranda.
INSIDER'S TIP: Arguably the best big game viewing in all of Africa with a bountiful hunting ground for large prides of lions and leopards.
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Each spacious canvas suite is a private oasis. The suites comprise an indoor lounge area, separate bedroom and bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, elegant copper bathtub, and an outdoor private sala with a double day bed, sunken couch, private plunge pool, and wrap-around veranda – a total immersion in the bush.





Wilderness has been privileged to witness three generations of Wilderness Mombo, undoubtedly one of Africa’s foremost wildlife and ecotourism destinations.
A spacious family suite with a private pool invites guests to bring the family and create lasting memories. A double bed and a set of twin beds accommodate a family of four easily, with plenty of extra room for privacy and peace.








Property Facilities
Bar, Library, Pool
Room Facilities
Electrical Outlets, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Safe, Sala, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Massages
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
Game drives via open 4x4 vehicles, accommodating a maximum of four per vehicle and allowing each guest a "window" seat. Seeing the high concentrations of plains game and predators – including the big cats – is the order of the day at Wilderness Mombo.
Our guides are the vital link between you and the intricacies of the natural world. They love sharing their knowledge, and do so with passion and humour, making your whole journey seamless and interpretive from start to finish.
* Please note that as the camp is located within the Moremi Game Reserve, night drives are not possible at Wilderness Mombo.




Experience a delicious, freshly-made brunch enjoyed out in the bush after an action-packed game drive. Wilderness Mombo's cuisine has always remained relevant to its surroundings, using locally-sourced ingredients prepared with great care and respect, offering guests an authentic yet refreshing and stylish gourmet experience deep in the remote Okavango Delta.



Enjoy being pampered by one of our expert massage therapists in the comfort of your suite or private deck. Or visit the spa, one of the best me-time journeys in which to relax, restore and revitalise.



To keep up with your daily fitness routine, exercise within unbeatable bush views from our gym or pool overlooking the picturesque floodplain.



Take a tour behind the scenes to see how our operational teams maintain a light footprint, offering guests the ultimate in sustainable luxury whilst remaining rooted in an authentic bush-camp offering.



Wilderness King's Pool | Linyanti Concession






























Wilderness King's Pool consistently delivers the best dry season game viewing in far northern Botswana. Situated on the border with Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, Wilderness King's Pool is in an area vital to the seasonal movements of elephant herds, and to the survival of rare roan and sable antelope. Looking down over the Linyanti River, and up from the safety of sunken hides gives guests unexpected angles from which to witness great wildlife moments.
Seven well-appointed twins and one suite, all of canvas, wood and thatch, soak up the views of the lagoon. The main area, deck and bar offer uninterrupted views, with closer proximity to the water, while parts of the roof extend down to ensure privacy.
INSIDER'S TIP: Special highlights include sundowners on the Queen Silvia barge and time out at the unique underground hide!
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Set in the heart of the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, the camp celebrates the romance of its history, retaining the traits of a traditional safari camp with renewed authentic, yet modern, Batswana flair.
Each guest tent has a large bedroom and lounge area leading to a veranda that embraces the glorious views of the lagoon.
Special care has been taken to balance privacy, safety and comfort whilst inviting the outside in, to create a signature immersive Wilderness experience. In keeping with our commitment to driving sustainable tourism and operating with a light eco-footprint, the camp was refurbished in 2019, reusing or retaining much of the existing material from the previous camp – the superstructure, thatch roof, carved front doors and salvaged timber doors.
The ancient Batswana craft of weaving is expressed in a number of architectural details. This theme is evident throughout the interiors, with abstract embroidery images and hand-painted basket murals. Earthy, rough textures are punctuated by warm copper – in handles and other details – adding richness and depth to the architectural mood. Accents of teal are used throughout to enhance the neutral bronze and copper colour palette.





The King’s Pool Suite has two separate rooms (sleeping four guests in total), each with its own en-suite facilities, and sharing a private plunge pool and outdoor sunken lounge – perfect for families, a group of four adults travelling together, or a couple preferring more space and luxury.
Please note that one of the bedrooms is slightly smaller and has no outdoor shower. It is a standard guest tent and not suitable for children.



Property Facilities
Bar, Library, Pool
Room Facilities
Electrical Outlets, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Sala, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Massages, Night Drives, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Viewing wildlife on a game drive is a thrilling experience. The varied woodland habitats and ancient floodplains along the Linyanti fault line make the Linyanti an essential part of any Botswana itinerary. Some of our guests have described it as utterly breathtaking. A safari to Africa is worthy of being on every travellers' must see destination.



Catch sight of nocturnal creatures on a night drive along the channel. An intriguing opportunity for you to see animals that you may never have heard of and are more unique, such as genets, civets, and bush babies. The other exciting element of night drives is the chance of seeing cats at their most active.



On request, nature walks with skilled, armed guides are wonderful ways of getting close to nature and observing the smaller things you miss when travelling by vehicle.




There are two hides in the vicinity of Kings Pool from which to view and photograph animals and birds. One is located at the western end of camp and the other is an original underground hide, with the water at eye level making for a unique camera-friendly perspective



End the day with sundowners, relaxing on the elegant, colonial-style Queen Silvia barge floating down the Linyanti River. While the camp and its lagoon take their name from King Gustaf of Sweden who honeymooned here in the mid 1900s, the name of the barge romantically commemorates his wife. The newlyweds fell in love with the beauty of Botswana – a feeling that was mutual as the country fell in love with them too, and Botswana fondly named Queen Silvia the Dancing Queen!
* Water levels permitting.




Fishing with a limited supply of basic equipment is on offer 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.



Birding is outstanding at Wilderness King's Pool, with the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve an internationally recognised Important Bird Area (IBA), particularly for birds of prey like Dickinson's kestrel and water birds, from fish eagles to herons, and African skimmers. In the summer months, southern carmine bee-eaters nest near camp. Keep your binoculars close at hand!



Massages are available for you to enjoy in the privacy of your tent. A range of beauty treatments created to restore your body’s natural balance and soothe away your stresses.


