Okavango Delta and Chobe Safari

Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta are the most sought-after safari destinations in Botswana, one with endless elephants and the other crowded with honking hippos. Chobe National Park is the pinnacle of a true land based safari experience, where spotting avenues of baobab trees and ferocious predators are the order of the day. For the ultimate water safari experience, the myriad of channels and open waterways of the remote Okavango Delta offer the quintessential safari adventure. For a quiet game-rich safari experience in Chobe, head to Camp Savuti and Camp Linyanti. For your magnificent mokoro and boating safari, head to the magical Mboma Island Expeditions camp.

A Chobe National Park Safari

Chobe National Park is one of the most accessible safari destinations in Botswana, and is known primarily for its high concentration of elephant herds, wild dogs, and big cats. The reserve’s landscape is so vast and diverse that there’s room for all kinds of safari tourists. During the height of tourist season, most people head for the Chobe riverfront area, a rich ecosystem surrounding the northern stretches of the Chobe along the mighty Chobe River.

A lesser known area—but equally significant—is Ngwenzumba Pans/Nogatsaa, a map of clay pans hugged by grassy plains and archetype mopane woodlands. During the rainy season, the pans fill with water and provide a life source for wildlife. This area is slightly to the east of the riverfront area, and is incredibly tricky to navigate. A destination reserved for the avid adventurer and rugged nature lover.

Travel south you get to the Savute Marsh region, an enclave of exceptional beauty made famous by a multitude of wildlife documentaries. Savute is relatively easy to get to, and is popular with self-drivers coming from Maun. and offers a sense of true remote wilderness. A Savute safari is ideal for holidaymakers eager for an experience that’s far from the maddening crowds. The erratic Savuti Channel is one of the geographical marvels of the area, and completely floods the marsh and the Delta’s Khwai region when its flowing.

Scientists and geographers don’t know when the river will flow or dry-up. It was dry in the 19th century, then flowed 75 years later. For decades the river won’t flow, but sometimes the gap is only a few years. Camp Savuti is situated right in the hub of this geographical phenomenon, and enjoys sightings of the famous lions that have become known as the notorious elephant killers. There’s no denying that the Savute region is top notch safari stuff, which is why Camp Savuti is right up there as being a firm favourite camp in Botswana.

The Linyanti region is another section of the Chobe National Park worth exploring. It pairs well with Camp Savuti and Mboma Island Expeditions in the Okavango Delta. Linyanti can be a trek to access, but the journey is well worth the adventure. Linyanti is close to Namibia and the Selinda Spillway, and is known for its prolific wild dog and lion populations. With landscapes characterised by lagoons and pans, it’s no surprise that water loving red lechwe and sitatunga are commonly spotted. The best place to stay is at Camp Linyanti, which is located on the river-border between Botswana and Namibia. Birders will delight in knowing that the Narina Trojan is localised to the area, while waders and owls are frequently seen around camp.

The Okavango Delta

Encompassing over 2,023,590 hectares of land, the Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta. It’s the only delta that doesn’t flow into the sea, and instead drains into the Kalahari basin. There are over a whopping 150 000 island sprawled across the waterways, marshlands and seasonal floodplains.

The Delta is a renowned birding destination, particularly for raptors and waders. The Pel’s fishing-owl and southern carmine bee-eater are two of the most revered species to spot while exploring the floodplains. Moremi Game Reserve is the only proclaimed reserve within the Delta, and sits on the eastern part of the Delta.

Cheetah, elephant, leopard, lion, wild dogs, and everything in-between can be seen in Moremi. And the perfect place to stay in the Okavango Delta? That would have to be Mboma Island Expeditions, an idyllic hideaway located on the edge of the Okavango Delta’s fresh waters and the Moremi’s savannah terrain.

For the best Botswana safari, combine Camp Savuti, Camp Linyanti and Mboma Island Expeditions.

Mankwe Tented Retreat Safari Activities

Occupying 365 000 hectares of pristine bushveld territory on the outskirts of the famed Moremi Game Reserve, Mankwe Tented Retreat’s rugged wilderness location is certainly a major drawcard for explorers. In addition to their expansive traverse, Mankwe has recently extended their traverse to include the Khwai River, a predator-rich region known for its prolific big cat sightings. Mankwe’s safari activity offerings cover the full scope of both land and water based safaris, ensuring that eager safari-goers have ample opportunity to spot big game.

When guests aren’t birdwatching from the comfort of the lodge or observing the perennial drama of the African Bushveld unfold at the waterhole, they can enjoy a choice of on-site or off-site activities. Most of the full day activities are set in the Moremi, and in the network of channels on the Okavango Delta. It takes just 3-hours by road to get from Mankwe to Moremi, a journey in itself that traverses through prestigious territory before arriving at the Moremi gate.

The off-site activity options include:

Full day safaris – with packed lunches – to Khwai River in Moremi Game Reserve, where eagle-eyed guests are bound to spot predators hiding out in the thickets.

Boat cruises on the open waterways of the Okavango Delta can be added into the full day Moremi safari. Boat cruises take place in a small motorboat, and provide is is where elephants, hippos, and sitatunga can easily be spotted from the comfort of the boat.

Mokoro excursions through the Okavango Delta’s channels (dependent on water levels) can be added to the full day safari.

The on-site activity options include:

Morning and afternoon game drives, as well as night drives by spotlight take place on the concession in the event that no full-day safari takes place.

Special sundowner set-ups

Birdwatching from the comfort of the lodge.

None of these activities are compulsory. If guests would like to stay at the lodge, relax around the pool, play games in one of the relaxation lounges, or get spa treatments; then they are welcome to do so. A safari isn’t just about game viewing!

Mankwe Tented Retreat is located on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, and is the perfect place from which to begin a journey into the Delta. The exceptional location of the lodge in true Botswana wilderness makes it a regular host to elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, and wild dogs. The lack of fences allows for free-roaming wildlife, resident lions, an abundance of elephants, and incomprehensible room to explore.

FRESH Room Images of Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

A new photographic shoot for Umkumbe has been a long time coming, but with COVID it proved difficult to send our talented photographers on assignment. After the Botswana shoot, our first port of call was to send the award-winning Em Gatland to the Sabi Sand, Umkumbe’s home turf.

The guides at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside are at the helm of sightings, and consistently send through visuals from their game drives. Both Shan and Justin have a fantastic portfolio of big cat photos, and short video clips which are regularly shared via our social media channels. But what we needed was a few more updated room images, which is where Em Gatland comes in. As well as capturing a few new room images, she managed snap some pretty decent wildlife photos.

To recap, these are the accommodation options at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside.

Sleeps 20 guests at maximum capacity
7 Superior suites
3 Standard rooms
All rooms are air-conditioned, while some have river-facing views

Most of the rooms have a small verandah with camping chairs, and with views of the Sand River, while others look onto a small plains area with a watering hole. There are a variety of room options at Umkumbe, catering for families, friends, and honeymooners. Some rooms have inter-leading doors, allowing for easy access to younger family members. All the rooms are ensuite, air conditioned and have full electricity.

The Ultimate Botswana Road Trip with Sun Destinations

By now you’re well aware that we’ve added a new camp to our Botswana portfolio of camps and lodges: Boteti Tented Camp. This rustic camp is an activity-focused safari destination located a stone’s throw away from Maun, the safari hub of the Okavango Delta. For the ultimate Botswana road trip, Boteti is best paired with Mboma Island Expeditions and Mankwe Tented Retreat. This trifecta offers the following: an introduction into the world of water-based mobile safaris, Botswana luxury living, and wilderness exploration.

Mankwe Tented Retreat: Luxury living in a simple retreat-style safari lodge

Mankwe Tened Retreat is the most luxurious Botswana lodge within our portfolio, and bridges the divide between a luxury safari lodge and simple tented camp. On-site, there are two swimming pools, ample relaxation areas, bar areas, and gorgeously spacious rooms. Mankwe’s traverse extends all the way to the Khwai River frontage, an area renown for its plethora of predator sightings. Game drives take place on Mankwe’s traverse, while optional full-day safaris into the Moremi Game Reserve can also be booked.

Boteti Tented Camp: A rustic camp on the Boteti River

An absolute highlight of booking Boteti Tented Camp is that it’s close to Maun, which means airport transfers are included in the cost. Boteti stills enjoys a completely remote and wilderness location, despite its proximity to Maun. Upon arrival, guests are treated to an introductory mokoro experience and each day they have an option of doing a full day tour to a chosen safari destination in the area.

Types of day excursions in this sought-after area in Botswana, include:

Nxai Pan Full Day Activity
Makgadikgadi Full Day Activity
Moremi Full Day Activity
Full Day Mokoro in the Okavango Delta

Mboma Island Expeditions: The Okavango Delta’s most charming mobile camp

Mboma Island Expeditions is a delightful and charming mobile camp located in one of 3 picturesque locations on the tip of the Moremi Game Reserve. The terrain is incredible, and visitors can expect scenes of the meeting point of where the Delta meets Moremi’s savannah terrain. Simple Meru-style tents circle a main area comprising a dining section, campfire, and chill lounge. Wake-up to stellar sunrises, and fill your days with endless water safari excursions.

For additional splendour, our reservations consultants can combine the above camps with a trip to Victoria Falls. A Botswana safari is regularly paired with a quick stopover in Victoria Falls, where one of our lodges – Taita Falcon – is based. Heading further afield in Botswana, safari-goers can also explore the wonders of Chobe National Park while staying at Camp Savuti and Camp Linyanti. There are many ways to enjoy an ultimate Botswana Road Trip with Sun Destinations, all you have to do is enquire now.

African Retreats: 5 Things We Love About Bushwa Private Game Lodge

Bushwa Private Game Lodge is a luxury lodge, and there’s plenty to love about this haven in the Waterberg biosphere. Here are 5 things we love about Bushwa Game Lodge, a property within the African Retreats portfolio.

Location in a Malaria-Free Game Reserve Just 2-3 hours from Johannesburg

Buswha Private Game Lodge is conveniently located just 2-3 hours drive outside of Johannesburg, making it the ideal destination for a wilderness safari break. Situated in a remote area on a private reserve in the Greater Waterberg Biosphere in Limpopo province, Bushwa should not be overlooked.

Another major drawcard is that the reserve is malaria-free and has prolific wildlife and birdlife. On-site, guests can enjoy daily game drives with sunrise coffee stops and sunset sundowner stops. Eager safari-goers can expect to see a few local specialities such as caracal, civet, genet, jackal, buffalo, and an array of plains game. The elusive leopard is rumoured to dwell in this area, but is scarcely seen. You’re more likely to see to see prolific herds of zebra and impala than majestic predators.

Birdlife includes species such as Cape vulture, half-collared kingfishers, white-backed night herons, Verraux’s eagle-owl, mountain wagtails and ant-eating chat.

Elevated Views From the Lodge of the Waterberg Region

Perched high on a koppie, Bushwa Private Game Lodge boasts commanding views of the entire view of the Waterberg biosphere. The Waterberg is a UNESCO site, and the first place in South Africa to be named Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Directly translated, Waterberg means “water mountain”, and serves as the main source of water for the area. The vegetation is characterized by mountainous savannah housing a rich ecosystem comprising over 5 000 plant species.

Three Accommodation Options

Bushwa offers three unique safari accommodation options, ensuring the needs of all guests are met. The main safari lodge is located on top of a hill with sweeping vistas of the Waterberg biome. The main section of the lodge has 3 chalets with indoor baths and showers. A unique safari-style tent has a similar set-up, but offers a cool safari feel reminiscent of the true bushveld feel.

For guests chasing a more rustic, private and self-catering experience we have the Rhino Bush Camp. This is the perfect spot for families and groups, and makes for an ideal place for an event or special birthday. There are tented chalets, lodge rooms, and a loft area for children.

The third accommodation option at Bushwa is the romantic and rustic treehouse overlooking a busy waterhole. An ideal option for those with an adventurous spirit. Whisk your loved one away to this spectacular romantic spot in the middle of the wilderness.

Ideal for Honeymooners and Family

Bushwa is ideal for both romantic couples and families. Loved up couples can enjoy spa treatments, and solitude in the treehouse. There’s also a scenic spot on the banks of the river where honeymooners can relive their wedding memories over a bottle of bubbles from Bushwa’s premier wine selection.

Honeymooners can contact reservations@african-retreats.co.za to find out more information. For families, the Rhino Camp is the best option.

Spa Treatments

Bushwa’s spa treatment room and facilities are run by Tsamma Bush Spa. There are a range of spa treatments available at Tsamma, as well as luxury products. It’s always best to pre-book your treatment at Bushwa.

Kruger Safaris with Sun Destinations

Looking for the ultimate choice of Kruger safaris? Then select one of our camps and lodges for a memorable wilderness experience. From walking safaris to luxury stays and accommodation on stilts, the Sun Destinations portfolio offers a multitude of choices. Here’s a reminder of the unique properties within our portfolio.

Africa on Foot

Located in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Africa on Foot is a flagship camp in the area for Big 5 walking safaris. Guests can expect warm hospitality, simple accommodations in thatched chalets, morning walking safaris, and evening game drives. There’s a treehouse set just outside the main grounds of camp, ideal for romantics and adventurers looking to add a little something different to their safari experience. Two swimming pools provide the perfect place to cool off during the heat of summer, one of which is located inside the main camp, and the other adjacent to the treehouse.

Find out more here: www.africaonfoot.com

Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails

When Africa on Foot soared in popularity, it became evident that guests enjoyed starting their mornings off with a walking safari. Because of the abundant requests for longer walks, Africa on Foot developed its walking trails brand. Intrepid walkers can enjoy a 3-night walking safari in the Greater Balule region.

Guests will explore different locations on foot, under the watchful eye of a qualified guide. There will be lunches and coffee stops en route, and each night will be spent in a different location. Most of the game that’s spotted on foot includes an array of plains game and elephants. It’s dangerous to walk at night, so trails all end before the sun sets. To allow for predator sightings, every evening there is a short game drive to track predators.

Find out more here: www.wilderness-trails.co.za

nThambo Tree Camp

Ever fancied sleeping in a log cabin on stilts at eye-level with the trees? Make your childhood dreams come true when you stay at nThambo, the “luxury” sister to camp to Africa on Foot. This open camp is located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a Big 5 reserve teeming with predator action.

Each of the 5 treehouse-style units overlook the wilderness and Drakensberg mountains on the horizon. Wooden balconies provide the ideal place to sit and observe the landscape below. This is the place to listen to hyenas scurrying under the log cabins at night, while enjoying game drives in the morning and night.

Find out more here: www.nthambo.com

Chacma Bush Camp

Chacma Bush Camp is in the lesser-known Maseke Balule Game Reserve, a Big 5 reserve strewn with giant boulders and undulating terrain. This intimate camp also serves as the starting point for Africa on Foot Wilderness Trail, where guests can book a 3-day walking trail and end off in a night or two of luxury at Chacma.

Chacma offers two game drives a day, but the camp’s claim-to-fame is the small but spectacular waterhole right in front of camp. At the same time of day, almost day during season, the elephants filter down to drink. And you’re within a few metres of them when you sit on the patio surrounding the pool.

Find out more here: www.chacmabushcamp.co.za

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is one of the longest standing lodges in the Sabi Sand. Overlooking the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe is one of the most authentic and affordable lodges in the area. Known for their leopard sightings, and high density of predators, Umkumbe is just perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

Facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and dining area and the traditional boma, where guests will be served delicious and hearty South African meals.

Find out more here: www.umkumbe.co.za

Nambu Camp

Elevated above the landscape and built on an old anthill lies Nambu Camp, located in the heart of the Greater Kruger in the Olifants West Nature Reserve. This 6-bedroom safari camp overlooks a winding dry riverbed, bustling waterhole and the Drakensberg Mountain range which carves across the distant skyline. Views of this wilderness are framed by the lodge’s unique and open design. The camp has been in the Drinkwater family for almost 40 years, passed down through the generations and home to many memories with both family and friends. The name Nambu means ‘river’ in the local language of IsiThonga, and this unique lodge has many ties to this natural source that flows through the traverse. From the family name to the flowing waters of the Olifant’s River nearby. Tawny eagles soar above and herds of elephants drink down below; this hilltop lodge is certainly a
wildlife haven surrounded by nature.

During the heat of the day, relax by the camp’s poolside or bird watch from the lodge’s vast viewing platform before a mid-day brunch up at the main camp. Here at Nambu there are two activities per day, situated in a big five reserve head out on foot or on safari and explore this vast and diverse landscape, you never know what you may find here in South Africa’s true wilderness.

Find out more here: https://www.nambucamp.com/

Ezulwini Game Lodges

Ezulwini Billy’s Lodge and Ezulwini River Lodge are sister camps located in the Big 5 Balule Nature Reserve. Both other a luxurious safari option, with suites that have their own private plunge pools and balconies. Whether it’s the wooden, meandering skywalk at Billy’s that leads to a viewing deck, or the vibey bar area at River Lodge, the Ezulwini lodges are built for entertainment.

Find out more here: Ezulwini River Lodge and Ezulwini Billys Lodge

Nyala Safari Lodge

Resting comfortably on the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve sits the inimitable Nyala Safari Lodge. Distinct in design, this 5-bedroomed lodge offers thatched accommodation in an iconic rondawel style, an archetype of Kruger accommodation.

Just metres away from the main area is a thriving waterhole, where wildlife is known to put on a spectacle for onlookers. The boma area is strategically placed to take advantage of waterhole views, and offers the perfect place to sit under the stars around a crackling campfire after your evening game drive. Boma and swimming pool aside, the rest of the main area comprises a dining section, open plan kitchen, lounge, and viewing deck with hammocks.

Find out more here: https://www.sundestinations.co.za/camps-and-lodges/nyala-safari-lodge

Explore This Affordable Botswana Safari Lodge Close To Moremi

Mankwe Tented Retreat holds great appeal for both budget-conscious safari goers, and those with the “money is no object” bank balance. Mankwe is a drawcard because of its proximity to the Moremi Game Reserve, without the hefty price tag. The border of the Moremi Game Reserve lies a stone’s throw to the west of Mankwe, while Chobe National Park is slightly north, and Maun is only two hours south, by road.With traversing rights worthy of boasting about as well as oozing luxury finishings, Mankwe is a top choice for a Botswana safari lodge close to Moremi.

If you don’t know about this affordable Botswana safari lodge close to Moremi, then you need to carry on reading.

Hidden among a catherdral of mopane trees in a coveted region of Botswana, sits the inimitable Mankwe Tented Retreat. The lodge is like an oasis and sanctuary in the middle of Botswana’s hardy landscape, but still manages to be in perfect harmony with its surrounds. It’s location is ideal for visitors who want the best of both land and water-based safari activities.

Mankwe is—simply put—one of the most stylish, yet simple affordable lodges and fantastic addition to the Sun Destinations Trails of Botswana route.

Mankwe is constructed from natural light wood, ensuring a sense of connectedness to its surrounds. The 10 tented suites are joined by a mosaic of sandy paths and wooden walkways, each with a private viewing deck. The tranquil main area of the lodge houses a swimming pool, dining and lounge area, and another area with a second pool. The second pool has a pool bar, expansive deck area, and comfortable sun loungers.

Dotted around camp there are a multitude of small relaxation enclaves offering libraries of books, shelves of games and comfy couches. If that’s not enough, there’s also a small on-site spa treatment room offering basic massages (they need to be booked beforehand). A huge private lounge area that flows effortlessly through to the dining area is the perfect place to kick-back after a day spent exploring the Moremi.

The lodge is nestled in a prime location in its own 365 000 hectare concession, and has traversing rights that extend all the way to the Khwai region. This is a prestigious territory in the wild wonderland of Botswana, where the lack of fences allows for free-roaming wildlife, resident lions, an abundance of elephants, and incomprehensible room to explore. The birdlife in this area of Botswana is no exception to the fantastic collection of wild creatures that call this country home.

Mankwe Tented Retreat truly is haven of all things wild, and all things good.

Sabi Sand Cats Spotted at Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

The world-renowned Sabi Sand is a major drawcard for safari-goers from around the world, and is certainly on the map as being one of southern Africa’s “known” big cat destinations. Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is well-placed to take advantage of the abundant game viewing opportunities that present themselves on a daily basis. Regular visual updates from Shan and Justin prove that Umkumbe is in the hot seat of sightings. And it’s not just the big cats making an appearance, it’s the jumbos, jittery wild dogs, and jovial dwarf mongoose.

Right now, it’s all happening on Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside’s esteemed traverse. To spot a few of these famous Sabi Sand cats, head to this rustic lodge on the banks of the Sand River. You won’t be disappointed.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is owner managed and run, and is one of the longstanding lodges in the Sabi Sand region. For many years Umkumbe has been the first point of call for passionate big cat fans because of the abundant leopard sightings. Over recent years, the number of lion pride sightings also increased, making Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside a go-to destination for the budget conscious traveller seeking a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience.

The lodge consists of ten chalets/rooms with most overlooking the seasonal Sand River, and a beautiful pool area surrounded by wooden decking. Guests regularly see elephants, hippos, buffalo and antelope grazing in the river bed. Leopards and lions are no stranger to the riverbed in front of camp – do be on the lookout for these infamous Sabi Sand cats! Additional facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and dining area and the traditional boma, where guests will be served delicious and hearty South African meals.

Here are a few updates from the lodge, courtesy of Shan Erasmus and Justin.

Nweti leopard mating with Ntsumi female leopard
Ntsumi’s young leopard cub is still alive and doing well
Ndzanzeni leopardess was spotted looking for her cub
New female leopard called Mashaba spotted in the area, who comes from a neighbouring traverse
The team witnessed an incredible interaction between wild dogs and hyena
Currently, the lion pride dynamics are getting quite interesting.
A N’wasishaka male lion was heard roaring and contact calling close to a game viewer
Another N’wasishaka male lion was seen mating with a Kambula female

Without further ado, here is a gallery of images taken during the past few weeks.

7 Things We Love About Mankwe Tented Retreat

Mankwe Tented Retreat is a beautiful sanctuary of a lodge located on the edge of the famed Moremi Game Reserve, which means plenty of opportunity to spot predators. There are many reasons to love this lodge, but these are the 7 things that we really love about Mankwe Tented Retreat.

Mankwe’s Impressive Traverse

Mankwe Tented Retreat is situated on a 365 000 hectare concession of game-rich terrain on the outskirts of the Moremi Game Reserve, close to where the Okavango Delta’s meandering crystalline channels extend into iconic semi-arid Kalahari landscapes. In addition to the standard traverse, there is 20 000 hectares of predator-rich turf along the banks of the famed Khwai River.

Architecture and Design

Mankwe’s entire lodge is built with a sanctuary in mind, where simple wood structures provide the perfect place to relax. The wooded lodge looks like an extension of the wild tucked away in a grove of mopane trees and mysterious woodlands. Decor is mainly gentle hues that blend in with the lavishness of emerald colour plants and softness of cream from furnishings. A beautiful, simple palette that oozes that sanctuary feel.

Two Swimming Pools

It’s without a doubt that Mankwe Tented Retreat has the best safari lodge swimming pools. Because of the lodge’s potential capacity, it was decided to build two swimming pools to give guests abundant space for cooling off, as well as space to soak up the sun. One of the pools has a tranquil pool bar, which is the perfect place to kick back with a few drinks.

Sundowner Sessions

Nothing beats a Botswana sunset. The sky sinks into the flat landscapes, making the wide open spaces seem wider. Skies merge easily from pink to mandarin, and blazing oranges. To celebrate golden hour, the team at Mankwe pulls out all the stops. A sublime spot around a waterhole is where the team drops anchor, and drinks are enjoyed.

Game Viewing Opportunities

Elephants walk the earth around the lodge in great numbers, and can often be spotted ambling contently through the grounds. The on-site waterhole is a great source of attraction for elephants who flock to the waterhole for playtime. Other mammals to look out for are Cape buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippo, lechwe, tsessebe, blue wildebeest, springbok, kudu, sable, warthog, and baboon. The best chance of spotting predators is on the Khwai riverfront.

Rooms are Like Suites

Mankwe Tented Retreat is home to 10 Meru-style tented suites all individually decorated and built on raised wooden platforms. Suites extend onto private decks with a view of the untamed bush, while canvas canopy roofs cover the deck and outdoor furniture. The tented suites are an exciting fusion of bushveld delights with Scandinavian style with their sophisticated log cabin feel.

Spa Treatments

Mankwe offers a selection of spa treatments which need to be booked in advance. The small spa treatment room is just another added benefit to staying at this comfortable sanctuary style lodge. Relax and pamper yourself as you fall asleep to the choir of birdsong and the distant rumble of elephants in the background.

Landscapes and Life in the Okavango Delta

The mysterious landscapes and varied ecosystems of the Okavango Delta provide the perfect playground for a wealth of species to thrive. This intact wetland system is a World Heritage Site that forms part of the African Rift Valley System, and is an absolute mecca of rare beauty that seeks to inspire. Characterised by a mosaic of lagoons, marshlands, papyrus-lined waterways, islands, and Kalahari desert floodplains fed by crystalline waters, it comes as no surprise that the dashing Delta is a sough-after safari destination. For those postcard perfect moments that trigger envy among your friends, stay at Mboma Island Expeditions!

Mboma Island Expeditions is a mobile camping safari set on the shores of the Okavango Delta in a busy wildlife area. Views of swaying palms and vistas of waterlogged floodplains provide an idyllic backdrop for your wildlife photos. For the perfect adventurous and activity-based safari, Mboma should be your first port of call.

The most popular activity at Mboma Island Expeditions camp is the mokoro safari. A casual meander through the reed lined channels in a dugout canoe is a must-do in Botswana. This adventurous game viewing activity isn’t possible anywhere else in the world, and it introduces you to a new way of viewing the wonders of the world around you.

An experienced poler glides the vessel through a labyrinth of waterways while you to take the opportunity to spot game. Peeping through the reeds you might spot a shy sitatunga antelope or the gentle waterbuck knee deep in lily-covered waters. One thing’s for certain, you’re bound to spot prolific birdlife skimming the waterways or wading in the depths.

From African jacana to slaty egrets, spoonbills, saddle-billed storks, and an array of geese; there are plenty of water loving avifauna to spot. There are also opportunities to spot rarities such as the Pel’s fishing owl, African fish eagle and malachite kingfishers.The waterways are filled with birdlife, which is not surprising given that the Delta is home to over 400 species of bird. Don’t forget to look down while cruising through the waters – there are plenty of fish below the surface.

To get to the area where the mokoro adventures take place, a short boat journey is required. Boating on the open waterways opens the window to spotting elephants and hippos, which are often absent from the narrower channels where mokoros take place.

A safari experience isn’t the same without a game drive, which Mboma also offers. Drives take place in the world-renown Moremi Game Reserve, a paradise for Big 5 predators. It’s here where you can use your eagle-eyes to spot leopard, lions, African wild dogs, white rhino, cheetah, and more. The season for wild dogs is usually from May to August, when the packs become more sedentary because it’s their denning period. During this time the bushveld is also at its thinnest, making it easier to spot big game.

Mboma ensures that every game viewing opportunity is maximised, allowing you to spot some of the world’s rarest wildlife.