After bringing you Rhino Africa's Top 10 Safari Lodges in South Africa 2012, we’re spreading our wings and looking north towards the ruggedly beautiful landscape that is Botswana.
From the majestic labyrinth of channels and lagoons that make up the Okavango Delta, to the spectacular array of wildlife in Chobe and its surrounding areas, Botswana is an experience in the sublime. Considering the richness of the landscape, picking and choosing our favourite destinations was no easy task, but we don’t want you overwhelmed by the sheer awesomeness of this country, and so, we’ve managed to narrow it down to our top ten favourite spots.
Each lodge offers it's own unique style, breathtaking views and excellent service. Experience superior game-viewing with some of the best rangers and trackers, spotlit night drives, astonishing birding and exciting water-safaris.
Look through our list and tell us which safari lodge epitomises the ultimate African adventure for you. We'd love to hear your thoughts.
And now, we're pleased to present, in no particular order, our Top 10 Safari Lodges in Botswana 2012.
Camp Moremi
Where? Located in the Xakanaka area of the Moremi Game Reserve, on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta.
Why? Think luxury camping. With opulent furnishings and every comfort imaginable from traditional directors chairs to his-and-hers towels, you'll soon forget you're in a tent at all. That is, until you hear the roar of a resident Lion greeting the sunset.
[gallery include="13417, 13419, 13416" link="file"]
Read more about Camp Moremi here.
Little Vumbura Camp
Where? Little Vumbura is located on an island in the Kwedi Reserve in the northern reaches of the Okavango Delta.
Why? If the plethora of wildlife is anything to go by, Little Vumbura is where it's at. Don't believe us? Ask the birds.
[gallery include="13443, 13436, 13437" link="file"]
Read more about Little Vumbura here.
Jao Camp
Where? Jao Camp is on a large, remote island in the north-western sector of the Okavango Delta with the Moremi Game Reserve forming it's eastern boundary.
Why? Boasting an outdoor "sala" for your midday siestas, nine lusciously decked-out rooms built under a shady canopy of trees, breathtaking vistas and magical mokoro trips around the island, I think the real question is "Why not?"
[gallery link="file" include="13459, 13458, 13457"]
Read more about Jao Camp here.
Mombo and Little Mombo
Where? Situated on Mombo Island, just off the northern tip of Chief's island, both Mombo and Little Mombo Camp are within the Moremi Game Reserve in the Delta.
Why? With elegantly polished parquet floors, a small library and unrivaled views of Chief Island's abundant wildlife, Mombo Camp offers both sophistication and grandeur. As for Little Mombo? Well it's been rumored that the sheer decadence of this exclusive camp is enough to cause toothache, though I'd say it's a worthwhile risk.
[gallery link="file" include="13468, 13467, 13466"]
Read more about Mombo here and Little Mombo here.
Sanctuary Chief's Camp
Where? Located in the exclusive Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve. Accessible by air from Maun (25 minutes) and the private airstrip is about 2km from the lodge.
Why? Two words: "Predator Capital". This region is notorious for its abundant presence of Big Five and you'll be in the perfect place to see them in their natural habitat. The view ain't too bad either.
[gallery link="file" include="13474, 13476, 13475"]
Read more about Sanctuary Chief's Camp here.
Eagle Island Lodge
Where? Sequestered away deep within the Okavango Delta, Eagle Island Lodge is accessible by a Cessna plane from the town of Maun.
Why? The sundown cruises through the surrounding lagoons will leave you swooning and reaching for a cuddle-buddy. 'Heaven on earth' has never felt this literal.
[gallery link="file" include="13486, 13488, 13487"]
Read more about Eagle Island Lodge here.
Khwait River Camp
Where? This luxury tented bush camp is situated on the Khwai River in the Okavango Delta and overlooks the Moremi Wildlife Reserve.
Why? You've got the Khwai River floodplains on your doorstep and a lush forest of leadwoods and fig trees at your back - why not pull up a chair on your private deck and just soak it all in?
[gallery link="file" include="13500, 13499, 13498"]
Read more about Khwai River Camp here.
Nxabega Okavango Safari Lodge
Where? The Nxabega Okavango Safari Lodge is located in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve in the world's largest inland delta.
Why? Sophistication, elegance and intimacy. The Nxabega Okavango Safari Lodge is a leader in first-class opulence.
[gallery link="file" include="13510, 13509, 13508"]
Read more about Nxabega Okavango Safari Lodge here.
Sandibe Safari Lodge
Where? The Sandibe Safari Lodge is situated in the Okavango Delta in Botswana's Moremi Game Reserve. Access to this remote camp is by air followed by a 15-minute game drive transfer.
Why? Ever wanted to travel the world's largest inland delta in a silent electric wooden eco-craft? Sandibe lodge is all about “treading lightly on the earth”. Do so in style.
[gallery link="file" include="13520, 13519, 13518"]
Read more about The Sandibe Safari Lodge here.
Zarafa Camp
Where? Zarafa Camp, overlooks the Zibadianja Lagoon - the source of the world famous Savute Channel.
Why? The camp values exclusivity and accommodates a maximum of eight guests, which means it'll be just you, the bush and its long-toothed locals.
[gallery link="file" include="13525, 13526, 13524"]
Read more about Zarafa Camp here.
The people have spoken - and we've listened. We're adding Xaranna and Xudum, both in the Okavango Delta to our list, making our Top 10 a Top 12!
[gallery link="file" include="14572, 14573, 14571"]
Rhino Africa can tailor-make an African holiday of a lifetime to suit your budget, needs and style. One of our discerning and experienced consultants can give you all the inside information to ensure that you get the best experience and the best value for money possible. So contact us today and let’s start planning! Africa awaits.
