Steenbok Safari: Day-by-day

Elephants peacefully grazing the Khwai floodplains in front of Machaba conjure up something of a safari idyll. The permanent water, fringing Moremi Game Reserve, is key to the year-round appeal of this classic tented camp, whose setting – backed by a narrow tract of woodland – attracts wildlife aplenty.

Guests, too, are very much at home here. The tents are substantial, but still very much tents, their shallow porches opening straight out on to the sandy soil, with the river just beyond. This is no place for fancy decking.

Instead, rush mats and oriental-style rugs are spread across the floors, topped with comfy chairs and sofas and a mix of wooden furniture to create a decidedly homely feel.

While folding directors’ chairs and metal-framed beds add an authentic stamp, creature comforts are by no means lacking. The beds are huge – and supremely comfortable. Big round mirrors hang above his and hers basins in the bathrooms. White tablecloths rule in the dining area. And there’s a lovely circular pool with a view (and just a bit of decking).

"Enjoyed the mokoro journey on the river"

Mr H.fromBy Lairg

Arrived 9 Jun 2022, 4 nights

To wander along the sandy paths – lit at night by storm lanterns – is to accentuate the feel of the bush. That sustainability is taken seriously here is a big plus. See our full report on Machaba Camp

A high-quality “glamping” experience which moves locations around the Savuti area, but always offers creature comforts and big-game 4WD safaris. For the ultimate in glamping, look no further than Savute Under Canvas. At first glance, it’s the simplest of bushcamps.

Its five tents move every few days within the Savute area of Chobe National Park so that it leaves the lightest impression on the fragile environment. But appearances can be deceptive, even in a totally natural setting. Each of those tents is en suite – complete with flushing toilets and wonderfully hot showers on request.

The beds are genuinely comfortable, the food fresh, good and plentiful (do take a look “backstage”: it’s astonishing what the cooks achieve in such rudimentary conditions), and the service exemplary; how about a cooling footbath to counter the afternoon heat?

"Savute Under Canvas was absolutely fantastic in every way!"

Mr. M & Ms. CfromSeattle

Arrived 15 Jul 2023, 2 nights

As often as not, you’ll dine under the stars around the campfire, but a simple mess tent does service as a bar, dining room and general chat area, where tales of the day’s adventures can be shared with personable and knowledgeable guides. And at Savute Under Canvas, you should have plenty of tales – from the heart-stopping moments when animals roam into camp to the broad open spaces of the Savuti Marshes, where lion and wild dog seek out the pans – and their prey. See our full report on Savute Under Canvas

Situated on a small island deep inside the Okavango Delta, Pelo Camp is Jao Concession's newest lodge, opened in mid-2013. It is surrounded by permanent, open floodplains, so focuses on water-based activities – and primarily excursions by mokoro (traditional dug-out canoe).

"We liked the small size of the camp and the staff were all very friendly."

Dr&Mrs BfromWensleydale

Arrived 28 Sep 2019, 2 nights

Pelo Camp offers a charming, rustic experience with an emphasis on water-based activities. While it will probably disappoint travellers hoping to spot lion and leopard around every corner, its greatest appeal lies in its varied birdlife and picturesque scenery. It is well suited to adventurous travellers looking to explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta, and would also suit those looking to unwind for a couple of days and connect with the idyllic surroundings. This special little camp is great value and would be a lovely compliment to a camp with a focus on bigger game. See our full report on Pelo Camp