Botswana

Dominating this untamed land, massive creatures move about, instinctively following the ancient paths of their ancestors. Water levels ebb and flow, seasons change and life cycles on. It is here in Botswana, where civilization is stripped away, that the natural order of things is so very evident.

As old as time, the seasonal flood from the Angola Highlands to the Okavango Delta is the heartbeat of Botswana. Seeping along the panhandle and into the largest inland delta system in the world, the water creates a uniquely beautiful National Heritage Site, the incoming tide of life bringing with it birth, transformation and replenishment. These ancient, cyclical changes provide an exceptional safari experience and the area supports vast herds of elephant, buffalo and hippo, as well as numerous antelope, giraffe, zebra and the ever present predators.

Renowned as a predator hotspot, Botswana’s Chitabe is ideally located on private conservation land, bordered on the north by the famed Moremi Game Reserve. Here a mosaic of habitats supports outstanding wildlife numbers and biodiversity, and some of the most thrilling predator-prey sightings on Earth.

Chitabe’s rich, earthy colors and African décor ground you in the bush – as do the striking wildlife photographs of Chitabe co-owner, internationally acclaimed photographer Dave Hamman. The authentic individually styled tented accommodation at Chitabe is made to feel even warmer by the loyal staff, who have a profound knowledge of the area and its wildlife.

Chitabe is located across the Gomoti Channel from the famed Moremi Game Reserve. The permanent water from the channels forming its eastern and western boundaries ensure a compact concentration of thrilling game-viewing year round. The large prey densities make Chitabe a stronghold for African wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a smorgasbord of prey.

The dramatic mix of Kalahari and Okavango habitats, with consistent predator-prey interaction, makes Chitabe in Botswana a wildlife photographer's dream. The highly trained guides at Chitabe will help you capture unforgettable wilderness memories on day and night drives, as well as on guided walks.

Named after Batawana tribe members, Chief Moremi III and his wife, the Moremi Game Reserve covers approximately 5,000 square kilometers and is known for its diverse ecosystems, which include mopane woodlands, acacia forests, floodplains, and lagoons. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos), as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 species of birds. The Moremi Game Reserve is particularly famous for its large population of endangered African wild dogs. Visitors can explore the reserve through game drives, guided walks, and boat safaris creating exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

Step into a realm once reserved for Chief Moremi's royal hunting expeditions, located in the heart of the enchanting Okavango Delta. Personalized service, a remarkable setting, and the expertise of passionate guides are the hallmarks of a Sanctuary Retreats experience, showcased to glorious effect at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. This intimate, exclusive haven offers a blend of adrenaline-fueled adventure, breathtaking wilderness, and unparalleled refinement, swathed in the elegance synonymous with our brand. A reflection of responsible tourism at its finest, not only has is the camp committed to environmental and philanthropic endeavors, but its design has been reimagined in harmony with local traditions and culture for a truly authentic stay.

Sanctuary Chief's Camp boasts truly awe-inspiring game viewing opportunities. Our exceptional guides stand ready to impart their extensive wildlife wisdom as you explore the Delta in modified open 4x4 vehicles. On the plains, witness lions stalking the myriad antelope, zebra, and buffalo, delight in the sight of the elusive wild dogs, a rare species pushed to the brink of extinction elsewhere in Africa, and encounter leopards, graceful genet cats and hyenas.

In addition, you may embark on an extraordinary adventure aboard a traditional dugout canoe or ‘mokoro’, guided by a highly skilled local expert. As the landscape transforms each June, the camp's surroundings morph into a maze of lily-laden lagoons and meandering streams – the perfect stage for territorial hippos and lurking crocodiles awaiting unsuspecting prey. Being poled through these waterways is a mesmerizing experience that allows you to get up close and personal with creatures great and small, while witnessing the world from an entirely new perspective. The tranquil pace of the mokoro offers a refreshing alternative to game drives, and an introduction to timeless transport methods still employed by the Delta's 'river bushmen' or BaYei people.

All water based activities are seasonal and dependent on the water levels of the delta. Children aged 12 and over are permitted on the mokoro activity.

The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve includes around two-thirds of the Savuti Channel, sometimes called ‘the stolen river’. This important, life-giving water source has flowed and dried up unpredictably for over a hundred years, and while it has been flowing since 2008, after a dry spell of nearly 30 years, it’s anyone’s guess when another tectonic shift might cause it to dry.

Exclusive excursions, up-close encounters, an exceptional wilderness awaits at DumaTau. Its name means ‘roar of the lion’ in Setswana, but to us it’s also home of the elephants. While lions and other predators like wild dogs thrive here, it’s the elephants that steal the show. Watch great herds criss-cross ancient wildlife corridors, spraying one another playfully in the Linyanti’s waters and munching on waterlilies.

DumaTau is nestled between two busy elephant corridors, with 45 km of river frontage making it an unparalleled safari destination. The game viewing is outstanding, with wildlife frequently moving through the camp. Add to that a spa, a lagoon-side fire pit and a sparkling pool overlooking the water, and it’s no wonder DumaTau is an award-winning camp.

Gear up for thrilling game drives on a safari with Wilderness. A wildlife sighting is always unpredictable and that’s what makes a game drive so exciting. Look out for tracks. Listening for alarm calls and be on the alert for nearby predators. There’s so much to see, and being the first to spot something brings a whole new level of satisfaction to your day.

In the evening, catch a flutter of wings in the grass, a plaintive call from the reeds, a calculated dash into the water. A barge trip and birdwatching go hand in hand, as do sundowners. Binoculars at the ready and something cold to sip on, delight in a floating picnic or a sundowner cruise on a barge trip along Botswana’s wildlife-rich Linyanti River.