Lebala | Kwando Private Reserve
7 Jul 2023 - 11 Jul 2023
Be left in awe. Lebala means 'wide open spaces', and the camp is located in the Kwando Reserve in the greater Kwando-Linyanti region, which spans an area 30 times the size of Manhattan and boasts impressive carrying capacity thanks to astonishing ecological biodiversity.
Lebala is situated in the open floodplains close to the Kwando River, home to a wide variety of Africa's plains game, such as zebra, wildebeest, impala, giraffe, and tsessebe. The tremendous variety of wildlife also includes elephants, hippos, buffalo and the ever-present predators of lion, cheetah, and hyena.
The camp has nine custom-designed tents with mosquito net walls, allowing an unobstructed flow of cooling breezes and stunning views. Each has its own viewing deck and spacious bathroom with double outside showers. One tent has an additional adjoining twin room for family use. The main areas of the camp include an elevated viewing hide, a swimming pool, a communal fireplace and dining room, a safari shop, a bar, and a lounge area with a small library.
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Lebala Private Enclave
Kwando’s Private Enclaves operate as ‘private camps within a camp’ that bring enhanced exclusivity and privacy to small group travel.
Lebala's Private Enclave is a private mini-main area tucked away on the eastern side of the camp and has stunning sunrise views down the channel that is an offshoot of the Kwando River. The group can enjoy their own private dining, lounge, bar, pool and fireplace on an exclusive basis (although they are free to explore and enjoy the amenities of the rest of the camp).
The Private Enclave offers dedicated staff and, combined with a Private Guide for your group, this means you get a tailored schedule where activities and downtime are planned around your particular interests.
The Private Enclave can be booked for 2 to 10 people and are ideally suited to VVIPs, friends and family, photographic and academic groups, and any safari where you are looking for a more exclusive experience.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Drinking Water Filtration System, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Fireplace, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wardrobe
Luxury Suites
Each custom-designed suite has unique mesh walls for unobstructed views. 8 Tented suites, 1 Family suite all have:
Elevated, private viewing deck with outside seating Armchairs, ceiling fan, tea and coffee facility, charging station (international multiplugs), writing desk, open hanging space and shelving for clothes, digital safe, spare blankets, insect repellents and an emergency horn
En-suite, flushing toilet, double vanity basins, twin outdoor showers, ball-and-claw bathtub, gowns, hot and cold water supply
All rooms can be configured as a double (super-king, extra-length bed) or a twin (two ¾ beds, extra-length beds)
Plug charging points suitable for sleep apnea machines but not hair dryers Yoga mats available on request Lighting always available
The Family suite comprises: standard en-suite tent (with outdoor shower) connected to a smaller room sharing one bathroom with a separate toilet.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Drinking Water Filtration System
Property Facilities
Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access, Pool, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Disabled Rooms, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Viewing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Mokoro Excursion, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Game drives are undertaken in custom designed Toyota game viewing vehicles seating no more than six guests at a time in 3 rows of 3 seats. Guests are guided by a two person team of professional guide and tracker - a special feature of the Kwando Safaris wildlife experience. The two person team enables the guide to communicate points of interest and the complex interrelations that exist throughout the natural world, while the tracker ensures no sightings or tracks are missed.
The evening/ night drives are a Kwando Safaris speciality. The drive starts in the late afternoon as the day’s heat is declining. After a leisurely pause for the traditional sundowner, and as the African day is transformed into a soft colourful evening canvas, the night drive begins. The mystery unfolds as the creatures of the night, especially the predators, are revealed by spotlight, often unexpectedly.
Due to its location in a private concession, game drives can go offroad to allow vehicles to be positioned closer to special predator sighting which enhances the photographic and game viewing experience.
Walking in Africa's wild areas is the only way to truly appreciate the natural environment. While game viewing from a vehicle allows one to see more animals as you traverse much greater distances and get much closer to animals safely, there is nothing as awe inspiring and humbling as observing wild animals on foot. Many smaller species of plants and insects, tracks and signs are all easily missed when in a vehicle. The slow pace of the walk and interpretative skills of your guide will open your eyes to a new and fascinating world.
Game walks are not hikes; they are slow comfortable strolls meant to provide you with a chance to experience the wilderness at a natural pace. Any walk can be combined with a game drive or mokoro and the length of walk can be adjusted to suit your personal desires or level of fitness.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Drinks (excl Premium Brands) Included
Fast Facts
Camp
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Little Sable | Khwai Private Reserve
11 Jul 2023 - 14 Jul 2023
Tucked away in the wildlife-rich Khwai Private Reserve, Little Sable is a stylish yet relaxed safari camp offering an intimate Okavango Delta experience. With just eight traditional safari tents overlooking open grasslands, the camp combines warm hospitality, excellent game viewing and a range of classic Delta activities including game drives, mokoro excursions and boat trips. Small, welcoming and beautifully located, Little Sable is the perfect hideout for an authentic safari adventure.
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Little Sable has 2 family rooms, all of which are tented and raised on wooden platforms to maximise the views across the grasslands. Each also has a ceiling fan and ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, and a private veranda.
Little Sable has 6 twin/double rooms, all of which are tented and raised on wooden platforms to maximise the views across the grasslands. Each also has a ceiling fan and ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, and a private veranda.
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Hairdryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Massages, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
This is one activity that screams safari. Hop on our comfortable game viewing vehicles for a morning and afternoon/evening game drive. Your safari guide has all the expertise and knowledge to find you some of the best kept secrets and most loved wildlife in the Okavango Delta.
This is one of the most iconic Okavango Delta experiences. Wind your way around the crystal clear waterways on mokoro. Your experienced guide, will pole you amongst the lily pads and weaving sandbanks, to show you the ebbs and flows of this incredible eco-system.
Jump on board our delta boats to cruise the Okavango waterways. Your experienced driver and guide will show you some of the best river sightings and sunsets. Keep a look out for birds, crocodiles, hippo and exciting game coming to quench their thirst, while you moor up along the river bank sipping a sundowner. This is what safari boat cruising is all about.
A fabulous activity for families with kids. We’re all about catch and release so ask your safari guide to hook you up with a couple of rods. Your experienced guide will pole you amongst the lily pads and weaving sandbanks, showing you the ebb and flow of this incredible eco-system.
Calling all bird lovers! Bring your binos, your bird book and your Natural Selection birding checklist to enjoy a birding safari in the Okavango Delta. Your safari guide will show you spectacular birds, and is at the ready to answer all your birding questions.
Head out with the Khwai Private Reserve Rangers at dawn to see the last nocturnal animals going to bed, before the diurnal’s wake-up for the day. Being the first vehicle out you’ll be the first to find fresh tracks, helping the rangers with the predator identification (all sightings are logged and recorded). You’ll spend your morning tracking, patrolling and visiting conservation projects. Enjoy a packed breakfast out in the bush with the rangers, they will get you back to camp just before lunchtime.
Go on a cultural visit to Khwai Village, located next to Khwai Private Reserve. You’ll learn about the Kgotla (meeting place in the village) its history and traditions. Visit Khwai Pre-Primary School to enjoy interactions with the teachers & children. Meet the ladies doing traditional basket weaving, as well as visit the Kachokachoka, a traditional healer who’ll teach you about traditional medicine & local beliefs. Tour can only be booked once guests are in camp (no pre-bookings). There are strict dress guidelines when entering the Kgotla to show respect. Book a consultation with the traditional healer (additional cost).
Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the Okavango Delta. This is an incredible opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the Delta when seeing it from above. From your seat, door off (or on), you’ll be able to spot game, take exceptional photos and follow the waterways and animal pathways that shape this ancient wilderness.
If you are needing a little me time, then this is the perfect activity. Book a back massage or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment while in between game drives and wildlife adventures. This is safari self-indulgence without any guilt allowed.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Drinks (excl Premium Brands) Included
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Mapula | NG12 Concession
14 Jul 2023 - 18 Jul 2023
Mapula, situated in the private Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12), perfectly encapsulates the Complete Botswana Safari Experience. This is a place where Botswana’s diverse ecosystems dance in perfect sync, bringing land, water and some of the country’s highest wildlife numbers together for a journey that feels perfectly balanced, lightly visited and ecologically explosive.
The lodge is a beautiful base and exciting launchpad. It keeps the Northern Delta’s magic close while offering countless ways to explore. Twice daily scheduled activities include game drives (by day and night), motorboat safaris (seasonal), mokoro excursions, walking safaris, fishing, birding, and cultural excursions. Private activities, Specialist Guiding, scenic helicopter flights and Epic Experiences will also be available (bookings and surcharges apply).
There will be 12 safari suites in total, 2 of which can be booked as interleading for families. Each suite will feature an en suite bathroom, a private viewing deck, and plush in-room comforts (refreshment station, wardrobe, desk, and 2 fans). Lodge facilities include covered and open-air dining settings (communal dining with private dining available on request), an elevated fire pit, swimming pool with a gazebo, a bar, curio shop, and lounge areas.
Mapula is set to open on 1 March 2027 (bookings now open).
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Main Area
Twin Tent
Double Tent
Family Tent
Safari Suites & Interleading Safari Suites
12 safari suites in total. Each suite will feature an en suite bathroom, a private viewing deck, and plush in-room comforts (refreshment station, wardrobe, desk, and 2 fans). 2 of the 12 suites can be booked as interleading safari suites for guests wanting to share the experience. The interleading safari suites comprise two independent units, each with all accommodation facilities, and are connected by an enclosed corridor with two independent entrances. Twin or king configuration is available throughout, depending on guest preference outlined at booking.
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Children Friendly, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access, Laundry Service, Meal On Request, Outdoor Pool / Pool Deck, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Available Services
Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, High Tea, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Mokoro Excursion, Night Drives, Safaris
Explore Mapula’s deeper waterways by hard-bottom aluminium motorboat, travelling through the concession’s permanent channels and open stretches of water. These excursions offer excellent opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and wildlife along the banks, while revealing a different side of this remarkable wetland wilderness. Max 8 guests per boat.
Venture into the deeper waters of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12), where fishing brings a more adventurous dimension to the wilderness. Suitable for novice and skilled anglers alike, the experience is entirely catch-and-release, with the excitement of the pursuit matched by a deep respect for the ecosystem. Equipment is provided, although guests are welcome to bring their own. Each boat accommodates a maximum of six guests. Please note: fishing is not permitted during January and February every year.
The Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12) is where Botswana’s land, water and wildlife come together in remarkable abundance. A wild, lightly visited landscape, the concession is shaped by a rich interplay of ecosystems that creates exceptional conditions for wildlife. Explore it on game drives and night drives in open 4x4 vehicles, with responsible off-road driving permitted where conditions allow. Each vehicle accommodates a maximum of eight guests.
Birding is an ever-present part of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12), with its diverse habitats supporting an impressive variety of species throughout the year. From the lodge itself, birds are often within view, while game drives, mokoro excursions and walking safaris reveal different habitats and new opportunities for observation. For seasoned birders, private guiding and Specialist Guiding are available, offering a more focused exploration of the concession and its exceptional birdlife. Please enquire.
Step into the rhythm of the wild on foot. Walking safaris at Mapula offer a closer, quieter way to experience the concession, where tracks, birdsong, plants and the smallest signs of life reveal a landscape that can easily pass unnoticed from a vehicle. Led by two fully qualified guides, each safari moves at a considered pace, allowing guests to read the wilderness through its details and deepen their connection with this extraordinary ecosystem.
Much of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12) unfolds in a story of liquid pathways and glittering channels. Experience it from the water on a mokoro excursion (traditional dugout canoe), gliding at eye level through the reeds as the smaller details of this extraordinary ecosystem come alive. Each mokoro accommodates a maximum of two guests and is poled by a fully qualified guide with years of experience, offering an intimate and unhurried way to explore the waterways.
Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Mapula’s waterways, floodplains, wildlife and expansive wilderness. Doors-off flights can be arranged for unobstructed views, making this a particularly rewarding perspective for photographers. Booking is essential. Max 3 guests per flight. Surcharges apply.
Conducted by guides with decades of experience and specialised expertise, from birding to astrology. Ideal for specific safari goals, continuity, and connection. Includes a dedicated guide and private activities throughout a full Desert & Delta Safaris circuit. Please enquire for more information.
Available across the lodge’s full range of activities. Ideal for families, groups/couples, special interest travellers, or guests with specific mobility needs. Subject to availability and booking. Surcharges apply. *Please note that a dedicated guide throughout an entire circuit is available only with Specialist Guiding.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Camp Kalahari | Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
18 Jul 2023 - 21 Jul 2023
Camp Kalahari sits among acacias and Mokolwane palms on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. A relaxed, family-friendly camp, ideal for those seeking fun and adventure, without sacrificing comfort or style.
The camp is an eclectic mix of original African furnishings paired with traditional campaign furniture and colonial antiques. Guests can relax in the traditional lounge/dining area, or cool off in the large swimming pool. All 12 spacious Meru tents - 6 twin, 4 double and 2 family tents, are en-suite and furnished with rich textiles, Moroccan kilims, and four poster beds.
Guests can enjoy a range of year-round activities: Get up close and personal with a gang of friendly habituated meerkats; walk with Zu/’hoasi Bushmen for a glimpse into their ancient culture; game drive to experience unique desert wildlife; visit the Fallen Baobab, campsite of Livingstone & Selous and one of Africa’s three largest, oldest trees.
Dry season only: quad bike across the lunar expanse of the pans; lie out on the pans as the sun sets; watch the planetarium show unfold with horizon-to-horizon stars.
Wet season only: experience the spectacular migration of zebra and wildebeest, the second biggest in Africa and the last remaining in Southern Africa.
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Main Area
Twin Tent
Double Tent
Family Tent
Each of the 4 double tents include 1 x queen sized bed, private indoor/ outdoor showers, fans and private verandas with a seating area
Max: 2 adults
Children of all ages welcome
There are 2 Family tents, one includes 1 x queen sized bed & 2 x 3/4 beds, while the second includes 1 x king sized bed & 2 x 3/4 beds. Both are joined by a common private indoor/ outdoor shower, include fans and a private veranda with a seating area.
Max: 2 adults and 2 children
Children of all ages welcome
The 6 twin tents are made up of 2 x 3/4 beds, private indoor/ outdoor showers, fans and private verandas with a seating area
Please note that these can not be convered into a double bed
Max: 2 adults
Children of all ages welcome
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service, Library, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Netting, Safe, Shower
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, High Tea, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Night Drives, Quad Biking, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Horse Riding
Take game drives and night drives in custom built 4x4s to spot the unique desert wildlife that inhabit the pans, like the elusive brown hyena or Kalahari lion. Your experienced safari guide will help you discover a desert landscape, pulsating with life. Complete with bush picnics, morning coffees and chilled drinks.
Get up close and personal with our families of habituated meerkats. Head out from camp at sunrise, so that you are ready to tail these delightful omnivores as they set off in search of their breakfast. Walk amongst them (advised by your guide) and if you take a seat you might be lucky enough to be mistaken for a termite mound, where you'll be used as a look out point for predators.
Discover the secrets of the pans with the Zu/’hoasi Bushmen on a fascinating bush walk. See this ancient desert landscape through their eyes. These skilled hunter gatherers will show you how to survive, using their extraordinary tracking skills to uncover a smorgasbord of culinary delights... from bulbs, to scorpions, to berries. Spending time with them is a very rare privilege.
Saddle up to explore this wild, unspoilt area in the same way many of the earliest explorers, hunters and missionaries did – on horseback! You’ll embark on an adventurous outride (for all level riders). This is an exhilarating way to spot wildlife, cantering along the crusty salt flats and following the animal highways that bring life to the Makgadikgadi Pans.
*Please note that this activity is at an additional cost.
This is pure desert adventure! Take an exhilarating quad bike across the salt-crusted pans (all pan activity is weather permitting and dependent on the dryness of the pans). You’ll feel total freedom as you trek across this vast and ancient landscape, discovering so much about the remnants of this once super lake.
Seasonal: April - October
Visit the site of the Fallen Baobab, one of the three largest and oldest trees in Africa and the camp site for Livingstone and Selous..
Witness the second largest migration in Africa. A stonking spectacle of black and white stripes
as approximately 30,000 zebra and wildebeest migrate across the Makgadikgadi Pans, followed closely by stalking predators, waiting for the rich pickings of tired hooves. This is a wildlife explosion and an experience not to be missed!
This really is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a helicopter flight over the Makgadikgadi Pans, doors off (or on), to take in the vastness of this desert landscape. You’ll go in search of the zebra and flamingo migrations (if timed correctly), get dropped on an island of baobabs for lunch, do a bit of sunset sky surfing as you follow the palm tree linings and tell all your friends about it all when you get home.
If you are in need of some serious time out, then one of our spa treatments is your perfect escape. Our professional therapist will put you in seventh heaven. Book a back massage overlooking the Makgadikgadi Pans or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment from the privacy of your tent. Whichever you decide, you’ll walk away feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Grab a fat bike and peddle around the Makgadikgadi Pans. This is a really fun activity for the whole family, and an ideal way to get some exercise. These bikes can easily cruise over the desert terrain, taking you along 4x4 tracks and around the crusty salt flats. Keep a look out for sightings of wildlife, while breathing in the beautiful scenery, alongside the desert silence.
The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are one of the most important breeding sites in southern Africa for
the lesser and greater flamingos. These flying flame birds, arrive in their millions during seasons of good rain, when millions of small shrimp and other crustaceans crack through the salty pan crust to spawn. The result, a pink extravaganza in the heat of the desert. You can also heli to Sua Pan to view the flamingos in Mar - Apr (scenic helicopter flight must be booked an an additional cost).
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Fast Facts
Other
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
