The Top 20 Best Safari Lodges and Camps in Botswana

Boasting a wide variety of wildlife and a diverse landscape featuring lush riverine forests and astonishing salt pans, Botswana is a safari enthusiast’s veritable Garden of Eden. If you’re planning on an adventure in this pristine wilderness region of Africa, look no further than our collection of the top 20 best safari lodges and camps in Botswana…

Botswana is consistently rated as one of the best places in Africa to go on a safari. It’s home to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, as well as the hidden gems of the Kalahari and Linyanti. You’ll find ample opportunities to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) as well as a wide assortment of other exciting wildlife. Planning a getaway to this slice of safari heaven? Get inspired with this round-up of the top 20 best safari lodges and camps in Botswana.

1. Mombo Camp

   Mombo camp delivers authentic tented safari camping at its most luxurious in the world-renowned Okavango Delta floodplains. The camp puts a strong focus on customer experience and your every need is anticipated. Friendly and experienced guides make every game drive a trip worth remembering. Devotion to your satisfaction is a part of every experience at Mombo, and the deeply personalized service will leave you feeling pampered and cared for from every angle.

   Highlights include:

   • A photography hide
   • Excellent personalized service
   • Friendly and expert guides
   • Big Five and big cat sightings
   • Scenic helicopter flights

   

   Ideal for:

   Honeymoons and family holidays

   Activities:

   • Bird watching
   • Game drives
   • Photographic safaris
   • Private game drives

2. San Camp

   Delightfully isolated San Camp is a must-go for anyone wanting to escape to the middle of nowhere and be immersed in the miracles of the African bush. Ensconced in the rolling golden grasslands and salt pans of the Kalahari desert, billowing white tents shaded by palm trees deliver a sense of the romantic. This seasonal camp (November to March) is dedicated to making the most of the dry season in Makgadikgadi Pans and places a strong focus on the striking views of the salt pans and a game-loaded savannah, all of which can be scouted by horseback and quad bike (ATV).

   Highlights include:

   • Delicious and innovative cuisine
   • Meerkat interactions
   • Bushman walks
   • Tented yoga and meditation deck

   

   Ideal for:

   Romantic escapes

   Activities:

   • Game drives
   • Guided walks
   • Quad biking
   • Specialist guides
   • Bird watching
   • Yoga
   • High tea
   • Horseriding

3. Tuludi Camp

   Tucked away in the famous Khwai Private Concession and constructed in partnership with the local community, Tuludi camp is the ideal base if you’re looking to explore the fascinating Okavango Delta. When you’re done spotting elephants, hippos, lions, and leopards, settle into the stylish and polished camp to admire the breathtaking views of the spectacular wilderness in the shade of acacia trees.

   Highlights include:

   • Private vehicle and guide with the family suite
   • Mokoro and boat safaris
   • Walking safaris and night drives
   • Guaranteed big game viewing

   

   Ideal for:

   Couples and families

   Activities:

   • Game drives
   • Guided walking safaris
   • Mokoro trails

4. Chobe Chilwero

   Overlooking the sparkling Chobe River and limitless bushveld, Chobe Chilwero is a dreamy riverside retreat on the edge of the Chobe National Park. Whether you choose to explore the plains on a game drive or make your way along the waters in a boat, you can look forward to incredible wildlife encounters with lions, leopards, hippos, wild dogs, and buffalo. Of course, no trip is complete without spotting the majestic Kalahari elephants the area is famous for. A stay at Chobe Chilwero is everything you could hope for from a Botswana safari.

   Highlights include:

   • Spa treatments in a treetop room
   • A kids’ safari program
   • Guaranteed elephant sightings
   • Photography safari cruises
   • A tour of Victoria Falls in neighboring Zimbabwe

   
   Ideal for:

   Family holidays

   Activities:

   • Game drives
   • Sunset cruises
   • Photographic safaris
   • Fishing
   • Boat excursions

5. Okuti Camp

   Situated in the heart of the Moremi Game Reserve, Okuti camp’s one-of-a-kind domed suites are built using wood, reeds, and canvas. Beneath the exterior of these masasas (houses of reeds) lies a lush interior with comfy furnishings. Each suite is raised on a wooden deck with rooms overlooking the tranquil Maunachira channel and Moremi’s flourishing wetlands. Expect views guaranteed to instill a sense of wonder and inner peace.

   Highlights include:

   • Exploring the Delta by motorboat
   • Custom safari vehicles for unparalleled game viewing
   • Abundant birdlife
   • Jawdropping views

   

   Ideal for:

   Keen birders, families, and couples

   Activities:

   • Bird watching
   • Specialist guides
   • Boat excursions
   • Game drives

6. Sanctuary Baines’ Camp

   The elegant and stylish Baines’ Camp delivers the classical African safari experience with a twist of romance. Perfectly suited to couples, the camp offers a range of intimate activities from candle-lit dinners under the Milky Way to languid sunset mokoro rides on the Delta, dips in the star bath, and peaceful nights in a star bed where you can drift off counting shooting stars.

   Highlights include:

   • Scenic helicopter flights
   • Eco-friendly camp
   • Seasonal mokoro and motorboat trips

   Ideal for:

   Honeymoons and romantic getaways

   Activities:

   • Game drives
   • Guided walks
   • Mokoro trails
   • Guided walking safaris
   • Boat excursions

7. Vumbura Plains

   Somewhere between a beach house and a log cabin, each Vumbura Plains suite tucked away in the African wilderness delivers a light and airy escape from it all. The camp exudes a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere with an elevated deck that lets you take in the awe-inspiring views of the Delta’s floodplain. Guaranteed to have you soaking up the magic of the African bush with every breath.

   Highlights include:

   • Mokoro rides and boating trips
   • Scenic helicopter flights
   • Night drives
   • Guided bush walks
   • Hot-air balloon rides (April to September)

   

   Ideal for:

   Family getaways and groups

   Activities:

   • Bird watching
   • Boat excursions
   • Game drives
   • Guided walks
   • Mokoro trails
   • Star gazing
   • Bush dining
   • Fishing
   • High tea
   • Night drives
   • Photographic safaris
   • Private game drives
   • Specialist guides
   • Sunset cruises

8. Xigera Safari Lodge

   Be pampered at Xigera safari lodge, where comfort and style are the name of the game. Enveloped in the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta and its riverine forests, this 5-star destination will have you relaxing in the lap of luxury. From gourmet dining to top-class spa treatments, every aspect of your stay is designed to maximize well-being and deliver an unforgettable safari experience.

   Highlights include:

   • A wellness center
   • Fine dining
   • Scenic helicopter flights
   • Photographic safaris

   

   Ideal for:

   Romantic getaways

9. Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

   Rustic meets elegant at this spellbinding destination, where you have uninterrupted views of lush mopane woodlands and flooded grasslands. Nxabega is everything you’d expect from a 5-star hotel, from its opulent comfort to personalized service. Enjoy gourmet dishes or grab a coffee from the in-house barista before you retreat to your hanging daybed to soak up the wonders of the bush.

   Highlights include:

   • Helicopter flights over the Delta
   • Catch-and-release fishing trips
   • Guaranteed Big Five and giraffe sightings
   • Seasonal mokoro rides
   • Boating adventures
   • WILDchild activities for the kids

   

   Ideal for:

   Couples and families

   Activities:

   • Bird watching
   • Boat excursions
   • Fishing
   • Game drives
   • Guided walks
   • River cruises
   • Specialist guides
   • Guided walking safaris
   • Mokoro trails
   • Night drives

10. Jao Camp

    Nestled on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Jao Camp oozes opulence and is only accessible by air. Built on a couple of levels rising into the tree canopy, this awe-inspiring safari destination incorporates natural materials and unique construction to deliver an out-of-this-world setting. With floor-to-ceiling glass panels, you’re guaranteed awe-inspiring views of the verdant bush, while contemporary furnishings blend with local art and carvings for a sophisticated feel.

    Highlights include:

    • Land and water-based safaris
    • Seasonal star-beds for nights under the Milky Way
    • Scenic helicopter flights
    • A one-of-a-kind spa
    • Exclusivity in a private concession

    

    Ideal for:

    Family getaways

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Boating excursions
    • Game drives
    • Guided walks
    • Mokoro trails
    • Night drives
    • Fishing
    • Picnics
    • Bush dining
    • Full-day safaris
    • Photographic safaris
    • Specialist guides
    • Star gazing
    • Sunset cruises
    • Guided walking safaris

11. Eagle Island Lodge

    Positioned in the Delta’s stunning Xaxaba Island, Eagle Island lodge delivers a safari experience quite unlike any other. Here, timeless luxury meets Africa’s unique water-based experiences, skipping the rumbling 4×4 vehicles in favor of mokoro rides and barge cruises. Expect up-close sightings of wildlife like hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and all the big cats at this one-of-a-kind destination.

    Highlights include:

    • Horseback and helicopter safaris
    • Seasonal water-based adventures
    • Fish Eagle Bar on the water
    • The highest levels of luxury and exclusivity

    Ideal for:

    Romantic getaways and honeymoons

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Fishing
    • Helicopter flights
    • Local village visits
    • Mokoro trails
    • Specialist guides
    • Guided walking safaris
    • Game drives

12. Selinda Camp

    Located on the banks of the Selinda Spillway, Selinda Camp incorporates traditional African materials of wood, thatch, and canvas to blend in with its pristine surroundings. Unique and contemporary design meets the highest levels of luxury, with jaw-dropping views of the Selinda Reserve’s endless wilderness. Keen photographers will be blown away by the resident hide’s spectacular views of wildlife and the custom-built safari vehicles that make sure you can capture those amazing shots.

    Highlights include:

    • Sightings of African wild dogs and the Selinda lion pride
    • One-of-a-kind architecture
    • Walking safaris
    • Boating excursions

    

    Ideal for:

    Wildlife photographers and group holidays

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Boat excursions
    • Full-day safaris
    • Game drives
    • Guided walks
    • Picnics
    • Private game drives
    • Night drives
    • Bush dining
    • Photographic safaris
    • Specialist guides
    • Star gazing
    • Sunset cruises
    • Guided walking safaris

13. Chobe Game Lodge

    Moorish architecture and mindblowing decor make a stay at Chobe Game Lodge an unforgettable experience. As one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, this remarkable feat of design delivers the ultimate in luxury stays. Outstanding views of the wildlife-packed Chobe River are coupled with excellent levels of service, fine dining, and opulent accommodations. With such an upscale experience, you’ll be forgiven for forgetting you’re in the middle of the wilderness!

    Highlights include:

    • Reliable elephant sightings
    • Eco-friendly electric safari boats
    • 5-star luxury in arguably Africa’s best safari park
    • Sunset cruises on the Chobe River

    

    Ideal for:

    Group and family getaways

    Activities:

    • Game drives
    • River cruises
    • Specialist guides
    • Sunset cruises
    • Bird watching
    • Spa treatments

14. Camp Moremi

    Go off-grid without leaving behind the creature comforts of the modern world. Camp Moremi delivers the classic African safari experience with classy thatch and canvas safari tents, guaranteed seclusion, and opulent levels of service. Moremi Game Reserve plays host to daily game drives, sunset cruises on the Xakanaxa Lagoon, and leopard-spotting excursions.

    Highlights include:

    • Exceptional service
    • Privacy and hyper exclusivity
    • Boating safaris
    • Incredible views of the Xakanaxa Lagoon

    

    Ideal for:

    Romantic Getaways

    Activities:

    • Boat excursions
    • Game drives
    • Bird watching

15. Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge

    Tucked away in the depths of the Okavango Delta, Sandibe is ensconced in the forest canopy and tranquil waterways. The ultra-luxurious setting, unmatched levels of service, and awe-inspiring views combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever. Cool off in the plunge pool between game drives spotting wildlife like elephants and lions while the friendly staff anticipates your every need.

    Highlights include:

    • Distinctive architecture
    • Scenic helicopter flights
    • Night drives
    • Bush walks
    • WILDchild kids’ program
    • An interactive kitchen

    

    Ideal for:

    Family vacations

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Fishing
    • Game drives
    • Guided walks
    • Night drives
    • Specialist guides

16. Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

    Taking its inspiration from the plentiful water lilies of the Delta, Xaranna’s blend of chic yellows, lily pinks, and olive greens creates a calming atmosphere that will have you feeling at one with nature in no time. Unwind in comfort and soak up your time away from society while the staff takes care of your every need. Xaranna is the perfect place for couples and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the miracles of the wilderness.

    Highlights include:

    • Horseback safaris
    • Scenic helicopter flights
    • Unmatched levels of exclusivity
    • Kids’ entertainment

    

    Ideal for:

    Couples and families

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Fishing
    • Game drives
    • Guided walks
    • River cruises
    • Specialist guides
    • Boat excursions
    • Helicopter flights
    • Mokoro trails

17. Abu Camp

    Tucked away in a verdant riverine forest surrounded on all sides by open floodplains, Abu camp focuses on heart-stopping encounters with its resident population of African elephants. This ultra-luxury camp gets its name from a local bull elephant and the camp’s light grey color palette goes even further to entrench the aesthetic. If you’re looking for a completely unique getaway, Abu Camp won’t disappoint.

    Highlights include:

    • Star-bed sleepouts under the African sky
    • Water-based safaris
    • Scenic helicopter flights
    • Elephant experiences

    

    Ideal for:

    Romantic getaways and group vacations

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Game drives
    • Mokoro trails
    • Picnics
    • Boat excursions
    • Night drives

18. Little Tubu Camp

    Tucked away on a remote island of the Jao Private Concession, Little Tubu camp offers guests an intimate getaway from the grind of city life. Featuring only three tastefully decorated traditional canvas tents situated on stilted wooden decks, you’re guaranteed privacy and exclusivity. With room for just six people and jaw-dropping views of the awe-inspiring landscape, this special African safari hideaway will dissolve all your cares and deliver an unforgettable holiday experience.

    Highlights include:

    • Platform hide for wildlife viewing
    • Sleepouts under the Milky Way
    • Seasonal mokoro safaris
    • Boat trips
    • Night drives
    • Guided bush walks

    

    Ideal for:

    Couples and group getaways

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Boat excursions
    • Canoeing
    • Fishing
    • Game drives
    • Mokoro trails
    • Night drives

19. King’s Pool Camp

    With breathtaking views of the King’s Pool Lagoon and the wildlife-packed Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, you’ll feel like royalty at this idyllic destination. 5-star accommodations and service meet the quintessential African safari experience, and spacious, elegantly decorated suites will have you unwinding in no time. Extensive use of thatch and wood blend in seamlessly with the wonders of the bush, creating an atmosphere of sublime relaxation.

    Highlights include:

    • Guaranteed predator sightings
    • Boating excursions
    • Walking safaris
    • Scenic helicopter flights over Linyanti
    • Opulent suites

    Ideal for:

    Group getaways and families

    Activities:

    • Bird watching
    • Day tours
    • Game drives
    • Night drives
    • River cruises
    • Guided walking safaris
    • Fishing

20. Chief’s Camp

    Safari chic meets tranquil luxury at Chief’s Camp. Situated in the heart of the Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve, here you’ll experience the very finest of what Botswana has to offer. Enjoy incredible views of the Piajio floodplain and all the creature comforts you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Raw and reliable predator sightings and guaranteed Big Five game viewing combine to deliver a safari experience you’ll remember forever while unmatched levels of service anticipate your every need.

    Highlights include:

    • Scenic helicopter flights
    • Seasonal mokoro rides
    • A children’s play area
    • Reliable rhino sightings

    

    Ideal for:

    Romantic getaways and family vacations

    Activities:

    • Bush dining
    • Game drives
    • Mokoro trails
    • Specialist guides
    • Helicopter flights
    • Full-day safaris
    • Photographic safaris
    • Private game drives
    • Scenic flights