Reviews of Thamo Telele

"This was our first night in Maun and was a great introduction to Botswana.

We would definitely recommend as an introductory stop before heading into the bush. We were even taken out on a quick drive around the estate to see the resident animals up close; even though the grounds here are ultimately enclosed it served as a perfect starter for ten for the camps to come!" See all these reviews: 9n in Botswana

"Stayed for 1 night stopover in Maun. Nice to see a few animals in the grounds.

Unfortunately it rained all the time we were there although the outdoor shower in the rain was enjoyable." See all these reviews: 8n in Botswana; 1n in South Africa

"As well as breaking up the long journey to the major safari areas of Botswana, one good thing about Royal Tree Lodge is that you can safely embark on your own walking safari within their extensive grounds. No predators, obviously, but is great to be on foot amongst the impala and giraffe" See all these reviews: 10n in Botswana

"Best place to stay in Maun. Owned by an evangelical Christian group from Houston, dinner is like a church supper." See all these reviews: 10n in Namibia; 8n in Botswana

"The manager, was friendly and warm with a wonderful sense of humor. He took great care of us, and even joined us at our meals. At home this would be slightly intrusive, but he was so charming and it felt right - the beginning of the family style safari dining tradition.

The service was friendly and excellent, the food was delicious, the tent style room was luxurious and well appointed. The zebras, ostriches and giraffes were delightful, and it was lovely to be able to stroll around the grounds, since there were no predators.

It was also great to have phone signal and internet - our last connection for the rest of our stay in Botswana." See all these reviews: 14n in Botswana

"We were picked up quickly after clearing customs and were soon in our preferred room (Woodpecker) at the lodge. Each day we went for a walk down to the flood plain (Blue Route) where we saw lots of birds, many different from the day before - being birders this was very exciting for us.

One afternoon we went on a forest walk (Green Route) and came across a small pool - in which there was an African Rock Python (about 5 metres long). When we got back to the lodge we told Julius (Manager) who didn't believe us until we showed him the photos.

Each day Dougie (owner) took us out around the farm in his pick-up - we went to see some young Ostrich chicks on one such drive which was fine until the male turned up and chased us away!! Dougie didn't have to take us out every day but it was most welcome and much appreciated.

The accommodation was excellent as were all the staff that couldn't do enough for us - this we believe is in the main due to Julius (Previously at Kanana Camp) coming to RTL as manager. The food was first rate and plentiful and most nights a Spotted Genet would visit the decking to see if there was any leftovers.

All in all a very well run lodge and provided us with many memorable moments on our second visit ." See all these reviews: 11n in Botswana

"This was a slightly longer drive from the airport than I would choose next time.

We were coming from a really wonderful camp, so we were a bit disappointed. We chose this camp to have game viewing available for the night we weren't in the Delta or elsewhere because of flight scheduling. In the end there wasn't time for any game viewing anyway. The rooms were pretty but one sink backed up into the other one when my friend washed her hair. The food was ok, but not exciting.

I think next time I will stay closer to the airport, and not worry about it being not a 'camp'." See all these reviews: 5n in Botswana; 2n in Zambia

"Having booked the intercontinental flights separately with frequent flyer miles we decided on a one night contingency stay in Maun in case there were flight delays.

RTL was a pleasant place to stay for this.
Nice walks in the grounds searching for wildlife. But its only a one night stopover." See all these reviews: 16n in Botswana

"Royal Tree Lodge was the perfect place to arrive and unwind after a long flight.

It was particularly nice to take a walk in the private reserve, explore and encounter giraffes, zebras etc. on foot. Watching two genets in the trees while having dinner on the open deck was another highlight." See all these reviews: 16n in Botswana; 2n in Zambia

"Friendly and hospitable staff provided a very good service.

Two very minor issues

1.We arrived after 4pm (courtesy of Air Botswana) and our tent was sealed up and stiflingly hot. I would have thought there would be no problem in airing the tent on the departure of the pick up transport.to the airport.

2. We had to pay our bar bill in U.S.dollars as they were unable to process a credit card, I did'nt ask what happens if you do not carry dollars." See all these reviews: 13n in Botswana; 3n in Namibia