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. 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. 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 suite 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, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, 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), is set under beige, flowing canvas with canopy ceilings and completely open (yet netted) sides. Entering through the heavy wood Lamu door transports guests into a lavish space of deep reds, browns, brass and copper, evoking richness and beauty. Central to the Dhow Suite is a full lounge and dining area with a fitted dining table, coffee table with cappuccino machine, and a full-length leather couch and chairs.
Two large bedrooms are positioned on either side of the main area, each designed with an open-layout bathroom featuring an impressive copper claw-foot bath, indoor shower, separate loo and double basins. A large decking area fronts the suite, with a 5 x 2.5 metre swimming pool, exercise bike and outdoor showers for each room, all overlooking pristine Botswana wilderness. The adjoining main camp has a curio shop, and in-room massage treatments are also available.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, 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, 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, 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
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All 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
Wilderness Vumbura Plains | Okavango Delta
A modern-style safari camp that wouldn’t look out of place in an architecture magazine, Wilderness Vumbura Plains is designed and operated in total empathy with its diverse surroundings. Partnerships with local communities in this region of the Okavango Delta have created empowerment opportunities while allowing guests access to its many treasures.
Fourteen light, airy guest suites feature designer fittings and touches of unabashed luxury, including private plunge pools and salas, as well as indoor and outdoor showers. Safari activities focus on day and night game drives through a variety of game-rich terrains. Seasonal water activities can be very rewarding.
INSIDER'S TIP: Enjoy the use of the spotting scope for exceptional viewing of birds and wildlife. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the resident otter family!
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The formation of the Okavango Delta, and the life it supports, is brought to life in the camp’s thoughtful artwork, screens, maps, woven basket patterning and dyes. The rich colour palette of turquoise, purples and natural tones pays homage to the Delta wilderness.
The wardrobe doors and shower screens are clad in large, striking underwater photographs, while charcoal-coloured mosquito nets and black sanitaryware add to the contemporary feel.
Each suite is designed to maximise the magical views of the Delta and bring nature inside, while the artwork and bespoke design pieces tell the stories of the land, the people and the place they call home.
Families have complete privacy in Vumbura Plains’ spacious family units.
Vumbura Plains North offers six suites, and two family units (Vumbura Plains South consists of six suites, but has no family accommodation).
The two family units each accommodate four guests in two spacious en-suite bedrooms.
The main bedroom has a large sunken indoor lounge, with spacious indoor and outdoor showers, while the second bedroom is smaller and has an indoor shower.
Both bedrooms have separate entrances and share an outdoor deck and private plunge pool with seating area.
We recommended families with younger children choose the family unit with the interleading, shaded lounge area, as it is semi-outdoor and features canvas blinds which may be rolled up and down to provide cover for all weather conditions.
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, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Massages, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
Morning and afternoon game drives are offered in open 4x4 vehicles. Bringing you closer to many thrilling interactions being played out in the wild, our knowledgeable guides are the vital link between guests and the intricacies of the natural world.
Wilderness Vumbura Plains’ unique community concession agreement means that many of the professional guides here grew up in this area, adding an extra layer of authenticity and cultural relevance to their expert tracking and identification skills. Swap your game drive for a nature walk, and marvel at the smaller things you may miss when travelling by vehicle.
* Seasonal and subject to the availability of a qualified walking guide.
After dark game viewing with filtered spotlights allow you to find intriguing nocturnal animals.
Wilderness Vumbura Plains truly an Okavango experience, and there is no better way of viewing game and exploring the channels than by traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). The wondrous wetland habitats result in a multitude of aquatic life, and these excursions reveal the fascinating smaller creatures of the Delta including colourful frogs and lively waterbirds.
* Water levels permitting.
Excursions by boat are another idyllic form of water wildlife exploration in the amazing paradise of the Okavango Delta.
* Water levels permitting.
Fishing is on a catch and release basis, and the Vumbura Private Wilderness Area, is considered one of our best fishing areas as there is permanent water all year round. A limited supply of basic equipment is available at camp, whereas all fly fishing equipment is to be supplied by guests if required.
* Note that fishing is seasonal as it is prohibited by Botswana law in January and February due to breeding purposes.
The birding at Wilderness Vumbura Plains is as varied as it is exceptional all year round. Search for some of the the hundreds of bird species, from lilac-breasted rollers, to carmine bee-eaters, and secretary birds. Or even the Pel's fishing owl! In the summer months many migrant species are present, while other specials which are regularly seen include wattled crane, slaty egret, chirping cisticola, fan-tailed widowbird, pink-backed pelican and possibly rosy-throated longclaw for the dedicated birders.
Children in the Wilderness (CITW) is a non-profit organisation supported by ecotourism company Wilderness Safaris, which aims to facilitate sustainable conservation through leadership development and education of children in Africa.
Insight, care and commitment are required to conserve Africa’s pristine wilderness and wildlife areas. If we are to ensure that these places continue to exist – in this generation and those to come – we need the rural children of Africa to understand the importance of conservation and its relevance in their lives. Hence, our Children in the Wilderness programme: an environmental and life skills educational programme for children, focusing on the next generation of decision-makers; inspiring them to care for their natural heritage and to become the custodians of these areas in the future.
This is achieved in a variety of ways – from hosting Eco-Club programmes at local schools, to running camps at Wilderness Safaris and partner camps, for the children within the rural communities that live on the edges of the wild areas of Africa.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Drinks (excl Premium Brands) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 14
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Alternative Accommodation
Jao Camp | Okavango Delta
Jao Camp is situated on a remote island within the private Jao Reserve in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where floodplains, palm islands and waterways converge to create a richly diverse safari environment.
The camp features five elevated suites and two exclusive villas, each designed to maximise privacy and panoramic Delta views. All suites and villas include private plunge pools, generous indoor and outdoor living areas, en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, and spacious private decks. The two villas are ideal for families or small groups and include dedicated staff (a private guide, chef and butler) ensuring a fully tailored safari experience.
Wildlife activities are varied and seasonal, reflecting the dynamic Delta ecosystem. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, mokoro excursions through tranquil channels, boating (water level dependent), walking safaris and seasonal fishing. The reserve is renowned for its diverse habitats and predator sightings, alongside elephant, buffalo and red lechwe.
Beyond safari activities, Jao Camp offers a well-equipped gym, spa, and a curated museum space celebrating the natural history and cultural heritage of the region.
Fully solar powered, Jao Camp combines contemporary architecture with environmental sensitivity, delivering a refined yet immersive safari experience in one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness destinations.
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Jao Suite
Each Jao Suite is elevated on decking and thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with its island setting in the Jao Reserve. The open-plan layout includes a main bedroom, comfortable lounge area, dressing space and en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, double vanities and a freestanding bath.
Full-height sliding doors extend to the steel ring beam, opening onto an expansive private deck with a private plunge pool overlooking the surrounding channel and floodplains. The elevated position offers sweeping Delta views and exceptional privacy, with wildlife often visible directly from the suite.
A built-in daybed within the lounge area converts into an additional bed, ideally suited for a child or young guest, allowing flexible triple accommodation when required.
Each suite also features a kitchenette and dining area, Climate Wizard air-cooling system, Calore fireplace, overhead fan, mosquito net, Wi-Fi and in-room safe, ensuring comfort throughout the seasons. Natural materials including wood, steel and glass reflect the architectural language of the main camp while maintaining a refined, contemporary aesthetic.
Generous in scale and designed for seamless indoor–outdoor living, the Jao Suite offers an immersive and sophisticated base from which to explore the diverse land and water-based experiences of the Jao Reserve.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Smoke Alarm, Wheelchair Friendly
Jao Villa
The two Jao Villas represent the most exclusive accommodation category at Jao Camp, offering generous scale, privacy and a fully personalised safari experience within the heart of the Jao Reserve.
Each villa comprises two full en-suite suites, connected by a central shared lounge and dining area. Each suite features its own bedroom and private bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers and a freestanding bath. A built-in daybed within each suite area converts into an additional bed, ideally suited for a child or young guest, allowing flexibility for families of four to six guests.
The shared living space opens onto a private deck, where a plunge pool and private fire pit overlook the surrounding floodplains, creating a seamless indoor–outdoor gathering space.
Each villa operates with a dedicated private team, including a guide, chef and butler, allowing complete flexibility in daily safari schedules and dining arrangements. Meals may be enjoyed privately within the villa or in the main camp dining areas, offering guests the choice between exclusivity and shared camp ambience.
Guests also enjoy full access to Jao’s spa, gym, gallery and main camp facilities.
The Jao Villa offers a refined, flexible and immersive safari experience within one of the Okavango Delta’s most diverse wilderness settings.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Cooking Facilities, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Safe, Smoke Alarm
Property Facilities
Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Credit Card Facilities, Disabled Friendly , Eco Friendly, Gym / Fitness Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Meal On Request, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Restaurant, Spa
Explore the varied habitats surrounding Jao Camp on guided morning and afternoon game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles. Seasonal floodplains, waterways, woodland and dry islands create a diverse landscape that supports an abundance of wildlife and birdlife.
Led by an experienced guide, each drive is shaped by the conditions and wildlife movements of the day, offering opportunities to observe the reserve’s resident animals in their natural environment.
Game drives are subject to weather, road conditions and operational considerations. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
As the sun sets over the Okavango Delta, a different side of the wilderness comes to life. Continue your game drive after dark, using a spotlight to search for nocturnal species rarely encountered during daylight hours. Porcupine, aardwolf, serval, spotted genet and lesser bushbaby are among the elusive creatures you may encounter, while predators may also become increasingly active under the cover of darkness.
Night drives are subject to weather, road conditions and operational considerations, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Step into the wilderness on foot and experience the Jao Reserve from an entirely different perspective. Guided nature walks offer the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the smaller details of the bush, from animal tracks and plants to insects, birds and the signs left behind by passing wildlife.
Walks may take place on Hunda Island, where the drier months can attract a variety of species and create rewarding opportunities for wildlife viewing. Led by an experienced walking guide, each excursion is tailored to conditions and the interests and abilities of the guests.
Guided nature walks are seasonal and subject to weather, terrain, wildlife activity and the availability of a suitably qualified walking guide. Advance booking is essential. Participation is subject to the guide’s discretion and applicable age restrictions.
Experience the Okavango Delta from water level as you glide quietly through its channels in a traditional mokoro. Poled by an experienced guide, this peaceful excursion offers a closer look at the Delta’s smaller details, including colourful reed frogs, aquatic plants, dragonflies and abundant birdlife.
Depending on seasonal water levels, guests may be transferred by vehicle from Jao Camp to the nearest suitable mokoro launch point.
Available subject to water levels, weather conditions and operational feasibility. Participation is subject to the guide’s discretion and applicable age restrictions.
Explore the waterways surrounding Jao Camp by boat and experience the Okavango Delta from a different perspective. Cruising through open channels and alongside reed-lined banks offers excellent opportunities to observe aquatic birdlife and water-associated wildlife, including hippo and crocodile.
Depending on the season and conditions, guests may also be fortunate enough to glimpse the elusive sitatunga among the papyrus and floodplain vegetation.
Available subject to water levels, weather conditions and operational feasibility. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Try your hand at seasonal catch-and-release fishing in the waterways surrounding Jao Camp. The Delta supports several freshwater species, and the experience offers a relaxed way to enjoy the channels and floodplains from the water.
A limited selection of basic fishing equipment is available at camp for guests’ use.
Fishing is seasonal and subject to water levels, weather conditions and operational feasibility. In accordance with Botswana’s annual fishing closure, fishing is not permitted during January and February to protect breeding fish populations.
The Jao Reserve offers exceptional birding across a rich mosaic of floodplains, waterways, reedbeds, woodland and dry islands. With both land- and water-based activities available, guests have excellent opportunities to add a wide variety of species to their lists.
Notable specials may include wattled crane, slaty egret, rosy-throated longclaw, Pel’s fishing owl and African skimmer, alongside more regularly encountered species such as coppery-tailed coucal and African pygmy goose.
Birding opportunities vary according to season, habitat conditions and water levels. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Spend a memorable night beneath the African sky on Jao Camp’s elevated Star Bed deck. In the evening, the deck is transformed into a comfortable open-air bedroom, offering an immersive wilderness experience surrounded by the sounds of the Okavango Delta and an uninterrupted canopy of stars.
The Star Bed is available at an additional surcharge and must be pre-booked. It is offered seasonally from 1 April to 31 October and is subject to weather conditions, availability and operational feasibility.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Drinks (excl Premium Brands) Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 7
