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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Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessThe sublime lounge and bar area
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessGuest suite with redesigned windows and doors
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessThe decorative themes and blue-green colourways of the Okavango are reflected in the large guest suites
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessGuest suite windows and doors have been redesigned for uninterrupted views
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessEach guest suite has its own private plunge pool overlooking a floodplain
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessVumbura's prime position, set on one of the Delta's main channels, means year-round adventures on land and water
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessSerene mokoro excursions reveal the fascinating smaller creatures of the Delta
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessThe multitude of wetland and savannah habitats here results in a diverse and constantly changing environment to explore
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessOur generous and hospitable staff are the cornerstone of Vumbura Plains’ sublime experience
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessThe food is as unforgettable as the camp's setting
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessVumbura Plains epitomises the serene beauty and year-round wildlife diversity of the Okavango Delta
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessNumerous dining options are available - all include extraordinary views
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessAn artistic map of the Vumbura Private Wilderness Area is a central feature of the dining room
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessGame drive across a floodplain
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessHandwoven basketry preserves and promotes local heritage and tradition
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessLechwe in their element
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessVumbura Plains' guides are the vital link between our guests and the intricacies of the natural world
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessSemi-aquatic red lechwe are seen all across the Vumbura Plains area
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessPrivate dining al fresco
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessPrivate dining al fresco
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessWeaving Vumbura's extraordinary conservation and cultural stories into the décor and design brings the local culture alive for our guests
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessLight fittings fashioned from traditional fish traps hang over a map of the Okavango Delta’s water flow
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessDouble-sided map of the Vumbura Plains Private Wilderness Area on a movable screen in the dining area
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessSharing their knowledge is our guides' passion
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessWalking in the wild with an experienced guide is thrilling and rewarding
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessChoose to explore by helicopter for a fresh new perspective
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessThe longest-serving staff member at Wilderness, Head Chef Mma Glo serves her delectable fare
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessCheers to the end of another perfect day in the Delta
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessFloating sundowner bar in a shallow lagoon at Vumbura Plains
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessA suitably dramatic end to an unforgettable day on safari
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessVumbura Plains epitomises the serene beauty and year-round wildlife diversity of its iconic setting within the Okavango Delta World Heritage Site.
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessTreat yourself to a treatment from one of our expert therapists
Wilderness Vumbura PlainsCredit: WildernessAn installation of baskets made by talented staff members in the Vumbura Plains' bar
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
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.
As part of this unique collaboration, lightweight and compact OM-D photography equipment has been provided for guests to try out a number of the impressive features offered by Olympus. The picturesque vistas at Wilderness Vumbura Plains will amaze even the most seasoned safari explorers, and we hope that you will enjoy learning more about wildlife photography with our passionate guides.
* Olympus Photo Hub experience dependent on camera availability.
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
Your Rooms
1x Tented Room/s
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 14
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Wilderness Jao | Okavango Delta
4 Jun 2021 - 7 Jun 2021
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.
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Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessOne of Jao's signature design features is the marvellous bird’s nest-styled pool gazebo on the edge of the water.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe dining experience at Jao is a journey in itself.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao's award-winning spa offers a wide range of soothing massage treatments.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessCatching golden hour from a mokoro.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessHunda Island is a famed leopard hot-spot.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe rare and highly sought-after Pel's fishing owl can be reliably seen at Jao.
Wilderness JaopCredit: WildernessThe extremely elusive aquatic sitatunga antelope are another Jao speciality sighting.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessWildlife viewing on a sublimely quiet mokoro excursion.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe Jao Pride is thriving.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe convivial fire pit, the ideal setting for the retelling of the day's adventures.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe accommodation is a sculptural marvel of natural and recycled materials.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessAt Jao we invite you into a world where nature and architecture collide.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessOne of Jao's signature design features is its bird's-nest pool deck.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessBuilt into the towering trees, Jao’s elaborate design never ceases to impress.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessA private dinner for two with iconic Delta views.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao's lovely setting is incomparable when the Delta waters are at their highest.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessTable for two overlooking the floodplain in front of Jao.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessPre-dinner drinks and a cosy chat around the firepit.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao boasts towering, spacious interiors that have been thoughtfully crafted to create the ultimate African safari experience.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessMarvel at the gallery and museum, then relax in the library.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessView the passing wildlife parade from the pool deck.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessA full menu of spa therapies, from facials to manicures, and a range of signature massage options, are available at Jao.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessFront row seats to the action.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessEarly morning by the fire.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessFeel indulged as you discover Botswana at its best on boma night.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessA fire to ward off the nip of winter chill in the air.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessThe private dining settings are endlessly amazing.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessSurrounded by riverine forest, Jao is the archetypal Okavango Delta camp.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao's mindful design seamlessly embraces the surrounding bush.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao's giraffe skeleton will be a talking point long after your safari is over.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessJao's spacious interiors embrace the light and its natural surroundings.
Wilderness JaoCredit: WildernessFrom the lounge, keep your ears tuned for a hundred different bird calls.
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
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.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Your Rooms
1x Tented Room/s
Fast Facts
Lodge
No. Rooms: 7
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Wilderness Mombo | Mombo Concession
7 Jun 2021 - 10 Jun 2021
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.
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Facilities
Activities and Services
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessDinners are al fresco, taking advantage of the sweeping views
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessRelax in the main area as your pre-dinner drinks are prepared
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessMombo is set in an area of the Okavango Delta that is renowned for exceptional game viewing, particularly in summer
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessWith over 45,000 hectares (111,200 acres) of exclusive private wilderness to explore, each day at Wilderness Mombo surprises and delights
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessSilver service in the heart of the Okavango Delta wilderness
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessWilderness Mombo's cuisine is an elegant celebration of local ingredients and Batswana culture
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessA private plunge pool and sala are a feature of every guest room
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessAl fresco dining takes on a new meaning here
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessMombo's reputation as a wildlife stronghold was cemented by its extraordinary leopard dynasties
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessHearty and delicious meals are our chefs' speciality
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessWilderness Mombo's sommelier can't wait to share his expert knowledge
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessBoma dinners are a consistent highlight
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessStaff perform a stirring dance before dinner
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessGuest tents are connected to the main area by raised walkways
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessTaking in the view from a guest tent's private deck
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessFamily-style dining is a wonderful way to connect with new friends
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessThe spacious wood and canvas guest suites entice with sweeping views over a floodplain teeming with wildlife
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessWith a spacious family suite, bring the family and create lasting memories
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessMombo is set in a thicket of giant mangosteen and fig trees with raised walkways between the guest suites and main area
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessThe fire pit is the heart of Mombo's main area
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessSink into the comforts of Mombo's understated luxury
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessOur knowledgeable bar staff will readily whip up one of their signature cocktails
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessMombo's Safari Boutique is stocked with authentic hand-crafted curios that make ideal mementos of an unforgettable trip
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessPrepare to see off another perfect day on safari at Mombo
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessMombo's exquisite culinary experience promises to captivate foodies and wine aficionados alike
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessLocal indigenous produce is the hero of every Mombo fine dining experience
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessWild dogs are among the more thrilling predator sightings as they roam freely through the area
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessGame viewing can be just as rewarding from the pool with an ice-cold drink during siesta time
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessEach spacious canvas guest suite is a private oasis
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessThe surviving Mathatha male has his work cut out for him protecting his large pride of some 13 lions
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessDid you know the spotted hyena's scientific name is Crocuta crocuta - the two identical words are known as a tautonym in zoological terms
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessThe prides of Mombo have become legends in their own right, in this legendary wildlife area
Wilderness MomboCredit: WildernessGuests are likely to see wildebeest, one of the rarer antelope species spotted on an Okavango safari
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 MomboCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness MomboCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness MomboCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness MomboCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness MomboCredit: Wilderness
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
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.