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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.
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, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, 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
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.
