The Okavango’s best reserves

On arrival into Botswana, you’ll travel to the Okavango Delta to spend three nights at Wilderness Qorokwe. Bordering the renowned Moremi Game Reserve but based in its own exclusive concession, Qorokwe provides outstanding game viewing in a high-density area of the Okavango Delta. The camp’s magnificent main area, comprising an open-plan dining space, lounge, and bar, is the focal point and features raised views over the lagoon out of its glass side wall. Each tented suite is also elevated, about two metres off the ground, and oozes elegance with its Afro-chic interiors and freestanding bath-tubs placed close to the window – you can soak and sightsee at the same time. Guests can look forward to seeing a wide range of wildlife – lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, hyena, and high concentrations of herbivores such as buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and antelopes. The birdlife is equally impressive, with more than 400 species recorded. Among the specials of the region are black-breasted snake eagle, pink-throated longclaw, and the delightful Pel’s fishing owl.

From Wilderness Qorokwe, you’ll head to Wilderness Little Vumbura for three nights, enjoying the camp’s stunning location on a private island, within a private concession. Considered one of Botswana’s finest small camps, it is charming and well off the beaten track. The very comfy communal spaces include an open-sided lounge, a library, a dining area where everyone eats together, a fantastic little star deck complete with fire-pit, and an inviting plunge pool! Activities here are very much season-dependent, but they include daily game drives, night drives, guided walks, boat trips, fishing, and mokoro excursions. Little Vumbura has the advantage of being able to offer water activities all year round.