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Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp
Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp

Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp


18°47’17.2"S 21°44’49.4"E

About Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp

Opened in September 2024, the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp will offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself ...

... in a magical area. Famed for the diversity of ancient rock art that is hidden in the surrounding hills, this is one of Botswana’s two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the other being the Okavango Delta. Just four rustic canvas “pods” merge into the surrounding cluster of trees, a fitting place from which to explore the paintings and the hills themselves on foot.

We have visited Nxamaseri Island Lodge many times and have always enjoyed our welcome there. We have high hopes of the new Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp, which we anticipate will be handled sensitively, in the company of knowledgeable guides.

Our view

We have visited Nxamaseri Island Lodge many times and have always enjoyed our welcome there. We have high hopes of the new Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp, which we anticipate will be handled sensitively, in the company of knowledgeable guides.

Anton Walker

Anton Walker

Country manager: Botswana

Accommodation

4 tented “pods”

Children

Best for aged 10+

Open

All year

Activities

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Helicopter

Helicopter

Private activities

Private activities

Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp: Our full report

Opened in September 2024, the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp will offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself ...

... in a magical area. Famed for the diversity of ancient rock art that is hidden in the surrounding hills, this is one of Botswana’s two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the other being the Okavango Delta. Just four rustic canvas “pods” merge into the surrounding cluster of trees, a fitting place from which to explore the paintings and the hills themselves on foot.

The camp is linked to the long-established Nxamaseri Island Lodge, and is exclusive to guests who are staying at least three nights across both locations. Typically you’ll spend a night or two at Nxamaseri, followed by a night at the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp, returning to Nxamaseri to round off your visit here.

We have yet to visit the new camp, but understand that its four “pods” will be simple dome tents set on low wooden platforms and covered with local reeds. Their rounded, near-beehive design is redolent of nomadic Bushman dwellings that have dotted this area for millennia. An open-air private bathroom next to each pod will incorporate a bush toilet and a bucket shower, with hot water prepared on request.

Three of the pods will sleep two people, while a fourth is designed with families in mind, combining two pods that will sleep up to two adults and two children. Each of the pods will have mosquito netting.

Simple wooden walkways will lead to a dining table under the trees and a separate firepit.

Visitors to the Sleep-out Camp will leave Nxamaseri by 4WD mid-afternoon, taking around 1–1 ½ hours to reach the hills. After a guided walk around the camp there’ll be time for sundowner drinks around the firepit, where local guides will entertain you with stories of the hills and their significance in traditional Bushman culture. The day will be rounded off with dinner around the firepit.

In the morning, an early start will give you time to explore the hills and the paintings, with options ranging from short interpretive walks to a 2–3-hour sunrise hike to the summit of the Male Hill, which rises 410m above the surrounding bush, and at over 1,400m is Botswana’s highest peak.

Returning to camp around 10am, there’ll be time for drinks and snacks before the drive back to Nxamaseri, where lunch will be served.

A spectacular alternative to driving into the hills – at extra cost – is to opt for a helicopter transfer, either one way or in both directions. The ten-minute flight offers an aerial view of the Panhandle and the hills, and gives you a little longer to take in the atmosphere of the Tsodilo Hills.

Geographics

Location
North-west Kalahari & Panhandle, Botswana
Ideal length of stay
One night at Tsodilo combined with two nights at Nxamaseri Island Lodge
Directions
4WD transfer from Nxamaseri Island Lodge, or helicopter transfer
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
Meals at Nxamaseri are typically simple yet well-produced, and we would expect the same standard to prevail at the Sleep-out Camp.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Outdoor Dining

Special interests

Cultural Experiences
Close to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Tsodilo Hills, with their wealth of ancient rock art, the Tsodilo Hills Sleep-out Camp offers visitors interested in Botswana’s culture the opportunity to immerse themselves in the traditional culture of the Bushman people.
See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Botswana

Children

Attitude towards children
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
The appeal to children of camping in a wilderness area needs to be matched by an interest in culture, national history and the environment. Visiting Tsodilo Hills also involves hiking, often on uneven terrain. For these reasons, we would not normally recommend the Sleep-out Camp for younger children.
Notes
Although the Tsodilo Hills is not known as a wildlife area, dangerous animals can and do occur here, so children must be supervised at all times by a parent or guardian.

Communications

Power supply notes
It would be helpful to bring a headtorch.
Communications
There is no cellphone reception and no WiFi. In an emergency, the guides can contact Nxamaseri by satellite phone.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Other
Water supply notes
Simple bathrooms have bush toilets and bucket showers, with hot water provided on request.

Health & safety

Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
Guests will be escorted to and from their tents after dark.
Fire safety

Activities

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Not Possible

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Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Tsodilo Sleep-Out.


Other lodges in North-west Kalahari & Panhandle

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When to go to North-west Kalahari & Panhandle

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Tsodilo Sleep-Out in North-west Kalahari & Panhandle


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in January

The Okavango Panhandle is at the height of its rainy season, with short but intense evening showers creating a lush and vibrant landscape. Nxamaseri Lodge offers outstanding birding opportunities, as migratory species begin to arrive in large numbers. The swelling Okavango River provides perfect conditions for boat safaris, showcasing the area’s unique ecosystems. Fishing in the Panhandle picks up as water levels rise, attracting keen anglers.

At Tsodilo Hills, the rock art becomes more vivid against the green backdrop. Despite the rains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains accessible, offering a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural history. Rain-filled rock pools reflect the ancient rock paintings, adding an enchanting dimension to the experience.

In the Kalahari Desert, Feline Fields presents a more dispersed wildlife experience due to the abundance of water, but the vast landscape is breathtaking.

  • Warm days with occasional thunderstorms
  • Spectacular birdlife with migratory species arriving
  • Rising water levels ideal for boat safaris
  • Tsodilo Hills accessible but prepare for rain
  • Low visitor numbers and good lodge availability

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in February

Heavy rains continue in the Okavango Panhandle, sustaining the lush and vibrant landscapes. At Tsodilo Hills, the hiking trails may become slippery, but the vivid rock art framed by verdant backdrops makes it worthwhile. Water-based activities at Nxamaseri Lodge are at their peak, with mokoro trips offering intimate views of the Delta’s beauty. Fishing remains excellent due to the high water levels in the Okavango River.

Feline Fields provides a striking contrast between the water-abundant Delta and the arid Kalahari. Birdwatching throughout the region is exceptional, with many species nesting and breeding. The Panhandle’s lagoons and channels teem with life, creating unique photographic opportunities. Cultural experiences with local communities near Tsodilo Hills offer fascinating insights into traditional practices during the wet season.

  • Warm days with frequent thunderstorms
  • Birdlife at its peak, ideal for bird enthusiasts
  • Mokoro and fishing activities thriving
  • Tsodilo Hills rock art vivid after rainfall
  • Low-season rates available at Kalahari camps and lodges

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in March

The rainy season begins to taper off, and clear days become more common in the Okavango Panhandle. Drying hiking trails make Tsodilo Hills’ ancient rock art sites more accessible. Nxamaseri Lodge sees increased wildlife activity as animals re-emerge. The receding Okavango River concentrates fish, attracting predators and enhancing fishing opportunities.

The Panhandle remains lush, with birds and wildlife still raising their young. Fishing for tigerfish is especially productive. As the rains diminish, guided tours at Tsodilo Hills provide easier access and deeper insights into the region’s cultural significance.

  • Warm temperatures with occasional rains
  • Excellent conditions for Tsodilo Hills exploration
  • High Panhandle waters perfect for mokoro safaris
  • Birdlife still abundant, fishing opportunities improving
  • Fewer visitors and favourable rates at lodges

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in April

April marks a transitional period in the Okavango Panhandle as the rains subside. Tsodilo Hills offers perfect hiking conditions with cooler evenings and dry trails. Water activities at Nxamaseri Lodge benefit from calmer waters and increased animal sightings. The stabilising Okavango River provides excellent opportunities for both boating and fishing.

Game viewing improves at Feline Fields as vegetation thins, making wildlife easier to spot. Birdlife remains diverse, with some migratory species still present. As surface water dries up, animals congregate around permanent water sources. The vivid contrast of Tsodilo Hills’ rock art against the drying landscape is striking. Cultural visits to San communities near Tsodilo Hills reveal traditional practices during this seasonal shift.

  • Cooler evenings with occasional showers
  • Mokoro trips at their best and good fishing
  • Tsodilo Hills trails ideal for hiking
  • Increased wildlife visibility in the Panhandle
  • Shoulder season begins with favourable rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in May

The dry season begins, bringing cool mornings and evenings to the Okavango Panhandle. Tsodilo Hills becomes a haven for hikers and rock art enthusiasts, with excellent conditions. Nxamaseri Lodge offers exceptional fishing opportunities as water levels drop and fish concentrate. Wildlife along the Okavango River becomes easier to spot as animals gather at its banks.

The drying landscape at Feline Fields enhances predator sightings, as hunting conditions improve. Birdwatching remains rewarding, particularly in shrinking wetlands. Mokoro trips in shallower waters allow for close encounters with Delta wildlife. The arrival of Angola’s floodwaters in the northern Delta signals a unique ecological transition.

  • Cool mornings, low chance of rain
  • Water-based activities thriving in the Panhandle
  • Ideal rock art viewing conditions at Tsodilo Hills
  • Excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for tigerfish
  • Shoulder season rates available

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in June

The Okavango Panhandle experiences cool, dry conditions. The clear winter light beautifully highlights Tsodilo Hills’ rock art, making it an ideal time for exploring this cultural treasure. Nxamaseri Lodge offers outstanding game viewing as wildlife congregates around water sources, and the Okavango River attracts a diverse range of animals, creating stunning scenes. Night game drives at Feline Fields take full advantage of the cooler weather.

The thinning vegetation in the Panhandle improves wildlife visibility. Fishing remains productive, particularly for tigerfish, and birdwatching is rewarding with many water birds in view. Mokoro trips offer tranquil Delta experiences, while Tsodilo Hills’ hiking trails provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy cultural exchanges with local communities, gaining insights into traditional winter practices.

  • Warm days, cold nights
  • Clear skies perfect for stargazing
  • Mokoro trips popular for serene wildlife encounters
  • Tsodilo Hills hikes comfortable in cool weather
  • Peak season begins, with higher rates at lodges

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in June

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in July

The Okavango Panhandle reaches its coolest month, providing perfect conditions for exploring Tsodilo Hills’ rock art and hiking trails. Nxamaseri Lodge offers peak game viewing as wildlife concentrates near dwindling water sources. The Okavango River becomes a vital lifeline, creating dramatic wildlife scenes. Early morning and night game drives at Feline Fields are rewarding but chilly - packing warm clothing is essential.

The dry landscape of the Panhandle enhances wildlife visibility. Fishing is at its peak, especially for tigerfish, while birdwatching remains excellent with large numbers of water birds. Mokoro trips allow for intimate encounters with Delta wildlife, and Tsodilo Hills’ spiritual significance is amplified in the crisp winter air. Local San communities offer cultural insights into traditional survival techniques during the dry season.

  • Comfortable days, cold nights
  • Excellent fishing for tigerfish in the Panhandle
  • Tsodilo rock art vivid in dry conditions
  • Wildlife concentrated around water sources
  • Peak season - advance booking for lodges is essential

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in August

The Okavango Panhandle remains dry, with temperatures gradually rising. Tsodilo Hills’ rock art is immaculately preserved in the dry conditions, offering excellent opportunities for photography. Nxamaseri Lodge provides exceptional game viewing and fishing, as animals and fish concentrate around the shrinking water sources. The Okavango River attracts diverse wildlife, creating spectacular photographic moments.

At Feline Fields in the Kalahari, game viewing continues to improve as animals gather near water sources during the late dry season. The Panhandle’s parched landscape offers unobstructed views of wildlife. Birdwatching is rewarding, with species congregating around remaining water bodies. Mokoro trips provide serene experiences, while Tsodilo Hills’ trails showcase panoramic views of the arid surroundings.

  • Dry, warm days with cool nights
  • Panhandle fishing at its peak
  • Tsodilo Hills ideal for photography
  • Mokoro trips offer close wildlife encounters
  • High season with lodges often fully booked

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in September

Rising temperatures define September in the Okavango Panhandle. Tsodilo Hills offers warm yet comfortable conditions for exploring its rock art and hiking trails. At Nxamaseri Lodge, game viewing intensifies as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. The Okavango River becomes even more vital for wildlife, offering incredible scenes of activity. At Feline Fields herds gather near the scatted waterpoints in the Kalahari.

The dry landscape in the Panhandle enhances wildlife visibility, while on the water, September marks the start of the barbel run, attracting an array of fish and their predators. Mokoro trips provide close encounters with wildlife in shallow waters and birdwatching is exceptional, with migratory species beginning to arrive. Cultural experiences with local communities provide insights into traditional fishing and hunting techniques during this transitional period.

  • Warmer days, cool nights
  • Annual barbel run attracts tigerfish
  • Tsodilo Hills trails dry and easily navigable
  • Excellent birdwatching with returning migratory birds
  • Peak season continues, advance booking essential

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in October

October is the hottest month in the Okavango Panhandle, with Tsodilo Hills’ rock art and panoramic hiking trails best viewed in the early mornings or late afternoons. Nxamaseri Lodge continues to offer excellent game viewing near the remaining water sources. The Okavango River supports diverse wildlife, creating dramatic scenes as October also sees the peak of the barbel run. Birdwatching is at its prime with numerous migratory species arriving. Mokoro trips in shallow waters provide unique and intimate wildlife encounters.

At Feline Fields, the Kalahari’s stark, arid landscape offers unobstructed wildlife viewing. Cultural experiences with local communities offer insights into traditional practices for surviving this hottest period of the year.

  • Hot days, chance of rain late in month
  • Last chance for Panhandle fishing season
  • Tsodilo Hills hot but rewarding for rock art
  • Water levels low, affecting some activities
  • Final month of peak season at most lodges

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in October

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in November

November brings the beginning of the rains and the green season to the Okavango Panhandle. Tsodilo Hills’ rock art becomes even more striking against the greening landscape. At Nxamaseri Lodge, wildlife begins to disperse as new water sources emerge, shifting the dynamics of game viewing. The Okavango River’s rising levels signal the start of the Delta’s transformation.

The first rains breathe life into the Kalahari at Feline Fields, with the arid landscape turning green. The Panhandle’s ecosystem also begins to flourish, while fishing remains productive as the barbel run concludes. Birdwatching is outstanding, with both resident and migratory species present. Mokoro trips offer unique perspectives of the changing landscape. Cultural interactions at Tsodilo Hills include rain-welcoming ceremonies that celebrate the renewal of the land.

  • Hot days, increasing chances of rain
  • Water levels rising in the Panhandle
  • Tsodilo Hills best explored in early morning
  • Migrant birds arrive, excellent birdwatching opportunities
  • Shoulder season begins, offering lower rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

North-west Kalahari & Panhandle in December

The Okavango Panhandle is in full rainy season. The swelling Okavango River revitalises the Delta region, transforming the landscape into a vibrant, green paradise, criss-crossed with newly formed channels and lagoons, and teeming with new life. Mokoro trips navigate through newly flooded plains, and Nxamaseri Lodge offers unique wet-season safaris, with boat trips navigating fresh waterways. Birdwatching is exceptional with numerous breeding birds, and fishing is challenging but rewarding in the high waters.

Feline Fields provides contrasting experiences between the water-rich Delta and the greening Kalahari. At Tsodilo Hills, the rock art is framed by lush vegetation, creating stunning contrasts, and the hiking trails offer stunning views of the transformed landscape. Cultural experiences with local communities near Tsodilo Hills provide insights into traditional wet season activities and storytelling.

  • Warm days with increasing rainfall
  • Rising waters in the Panhandle enable unique boat safaris
  • Tsodilo Hills lush - prepare for wet conditions
  • Green season begins, transforming the landscape
  • Low season rates make December attractive for visitors

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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