Ludo's Research Trip to Botswana

Chobe Game Lodge offers a classic safari experience in a prime riverfront location, with a scale and energy that sets it apart from smaller camps. The design carries a subtle Moroccan influence, adding warmth and character throughout the lodge.

Wildlife here is abundant, and a particularly special highlight was an unforgettable lion sighting with cubs. The river safaris are another standout, offering a more relaxed and scenic way to experience the area. This is an ideal starting point for a Botswana itinerary; a comfortable and well-positioned introduction before heading deeper into the Okavango Delta and beyond.

For those seeking a more intimate, boutique-style experience, Savute Safari Lodge would be a fantastic alternative. While it was unfortunately fully booked during our visit, it is widely regarded as a more exclusive option, offering a slightly elevated and more private safari experience.

Camp Xakanaxa feels deeply connected to its surroundings, making full use of the Delta’s waterways and offering a beautifully immersive safari experience.

The warmth of the team is immediately apparent on arrival, setting the tone for a stay that feels both relaxed and well cared for. Guiding here is a real highlight, and we were fortunate to be hosted by DK, whose knowledge and instinct in the field made for a truly world-class experience.

Wildlife sightings were exceptional throughout our stay, from witnessing mating lions to a wonderfully intimate encounter with an elephant and a memorable leopard sighting. These moments, combined with the natural beauty of the Delta, made for a truly special few days.

The overall atmosphere is unpretentious and authentic, with simple but well-executed dining and a strong sense of place. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the Okavango in a more classic and natural way.

Arriving into Sediba Sa Rona by helicopter was a spectacular introduction to what is clearly an exciting new addition to the Delta.

As a newly opened camp, there is a natural sense of evolution still underway, with service elements being refined and developed, but the foundations are incredibly strong. The design is a real standout, with beautifully executed interiors and thoughtfully designed main areas, particularly around the restaurant and pool, which enjoy sweeping views across the landscape.

One of the more unique highlights during our stay was spending time observing a nearby hyena den, offering a fascinating and slightly different wildlife perspective to complement the more traditional safari sightings.

With its striking design and strong sense of potential, this is a camp that will no doubt continue to grow into a very exciting option within the Delta.

Nxamaseri was a true highlight of the journey, offering one of the most authentic and warmly delivered experiences in the Delta.

The team here is exceptional, led by the GM ‘Action’ and his outstanding staff, who together created one of the most memorable and well-hosted stays I have experienced. The level of care, attention and genuine hospitality is something that truly sets this camp apart.

Experiences here go far beyond the traditional safari. A visit to the remarkable Tsodilo Hills was a standout — home to over 4,000 ancient rock paintings spread across hundreds of sites, offering a fascinating cultural dimension to the trip. This was complemented by beautifully delivered local cultural experiences, adding depth and context to the surrounding landscape.

On the water, Nxamaseri really excels. From peaceful boat safaris to relaxed fishing excursions, every activity feels immersive and well-paced. The mokoro experience in particular was a true bucket-list moment — without question one of the best I have encountered in the Delta.

Set within a tranquil and deeply connected environment, Nxamaseri delivers a safari that feels both personal and enriching, combining exceptional guiding, culture and setting in a way that is hard to replicate.

Leroo La Tau enjoys a striking position overlooking the Boteti River, offering sweeping views and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in a beautifully open landscape.

The area is particularly known for its impressive zebra population, especially during migration periods when large herds gather along the riverbanks — creating a spectacular and ever-changing wildlife scene. The photography hide is a standout feature, and sundowners here are a memorable way to end the day.

Beyond the wildlife, there is also the opportunity to incorporate meaningful cultural visits to a local school and village, adding another layer to the experience and providing valuable insight into the surrounding community.

With knowledgeable guiding and strong seasonal game viewing, this is a lodge that really comes into its own at certain times of year, particularly for those interested in wildlife photography and wide, open safari landscapes.

Although only visited briefly for a lunch, Camp Okavango stood out for its thoughtful design and sense of seclusion.

The rooms are finished to a high standard, and the overall layout creates a feeling of being truly immersed in the Delta. It’s a great option for those looking for a more remote and peaceful safari experience, while still maintaining a high level of comfort.

Xugana Island Lodge offers a relaxed and scenic Delta experience, with a design that makes the most of its beautiful lagoon setting.

The rooms are particularly spacious and thoughtfully styled in calming blue and white tones, creating a fresh and airy feel that complements the surrounding water. Outdoor showers add an extra layer of immersion, allowing you to fully connect with the environment.

This is very much a water-focused camp, with boating experiences at the heart of the stay. Exploring the Delta by boat here is both peaceful and picturesque, while the opportunity to fish directly from the lodge’s deck adds a wonderfully simple and enjoyable touch.

With its laid-back atmosphere and strong sense of place, Xugana is a fantastic option for those looking to slow the pace and fully embrace the rhythm of the Delta.