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Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp

About Duba Explorers Camp

Combining intimacy with traditional style, Duba Explorers occupies a remote island location that is rich with animals and birdlife.

The remote, wildlife-rich island that is home to the old-world Duba Explorers Camp is nothing short of beguiling.

From its four-poster beds overlooking the floodplains of the Okavango Delta to the storm lanterns on the open decking, the whole camp oozes atmosphere – even romance.

Yet despite the luxuries, the camp is far from formal. Relaxation is very much the key here, whether you’re lingering with a drink around the firepit, sitting on your private veranda with a pair of binoculars or curled up on a leather sofa after dinner.

No more than ten guests share this safari idyll at any time: it’s a small camp, even by Delta standards. Theirs is a world of intimacy, inviting exploration of the private reserve by 4x4 or on foot, led by expert guides. For much of the year, Delta waterways give up their secrets too – viewed from a motorboat or even a hand-poled mokoro.

That the people behind the camp are world-renowned photographers speaks volumes for the location. Out on the plains, predators rule: lion, leopard and wild dog seek out their prey, which – like the elephant and hippo – is drawn to the perennial waters of the Delta. And the birdlife is exceptional too; don’t forget your camera!

Our view

Duba Explorers Camp is a small, intimate camp in a remote area. This, combined with a variety of activities, good guiding and excellent wildlife viewing, make it a particularly attractive option.

Amanda Bond

Amanda Bond

Botswana expert

Accommodation

5 tents

Children

Best for 16+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Fishing

Fishing

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Helicopter

Helicopter

Mokoro

Mokoro

Night drive

Night drive

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Duba Explorers Camp

24 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


96%
24 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
19
Good
5
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
R&KfromCastle Rock CO

Arrived 14 Apr 2025, 4 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"The food was the best of the places we visited..serenaded by hippos...each night …" Read R&K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs T fromCaliforna

Arrived 14 Apr 2025, 4 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

Overall rating: Excellent

H and SfromHong Kong

Arrived 15 Dec 2024, 4 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"our guide was great....camp staff very good and attentive …" Read H and S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Dermot & Sue fromHants

Arrived 14 Nov 2024, 3 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"Spacious with nice verandas. Lions, Leopards, buffalo herds and wild dogs …" Read Dermot & Sue ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

NCfromLondon

Arrived 28 Oct 2024, 3 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"guide Paul was fantastic... staff were friendly, knowledge and attentive …" Read NC’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr PaulfromDoha

Arrived 28 May 2024, 4 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"have been to this camp several times before and Love it ! Delicious food. …" Read Mr Paul’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

cykfromLondon

Arrived 20 May 2024, 4 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"An elephant decided to join us for my birthday dinner …" Read cyk’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs WfromUK

Arrived 21 Apr 2024, 3 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"Wonderful location... Excellent guiding and camp staff very friendly …" Read Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr D.fromUnited Kingdom

Arrived 21 Apr 2024, 3 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"a fantastic camp with great guiding... Game viewing was great …" Read Mr D.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs M & Mr DfromGermany

Arrived 4 Dec 2023, 3 nights

"Duba Explorers Camp review"

"watching the wild dogs over lunch from the camp deck …" Read Mrs M & Mr D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Duba Explorers Camp reviews

Duba Explorers Camp: Our full report

Set on a tree-studded island in a remote northern area of the Duba concession, the intimate Duba Explorers ...

... Camp is surrounded on all sides by the floodplains and woodland of the Okavango Delta. The camp was previously located further south, when it was known as Duba Expeditions Camp.

This is a diverse and pristine area of the Delta: a private 330km 2 reserve renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing and some very fine birdwatching. Carefully selected by wildlife photographers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, it’s a superb location.

The camp has just five spacious expedition-style tents, each built on slightly elevated decking and with beautiful views. Make the most of these from the substantial balcony, which has a very comfy sofa, two directors’ chairs and a small table.

Facing the view in the bedrooms are large double or twin beds draped with mosquito nets. Attractive lamps, Persian-style rugs on the wooden floors, and a writing desk with a chair add a further touch of class. In the bathroom behind you’ll find his and hers sinks, a large mirror and plenty of storage space, while the toilet and shower are separated out at each end of the bathroom.

The camp’s communal area, sheltered beneath a large canvas roof, consists of a small but comfortable lounge and dining area, with traditional leather sofas and a solid coffee table. A member of staff is usually on hand to pour drinks, but guests are welcome to help themselves from the bar. Most meals, however, are taken on the expansive, tree-shaded deck, which overlooks the floodplains and a perennial marsh that is a hive of wildlife activity. Below the deck is a firepit, where guests gather for a drink before dinner. There is also a small curio shop.

Duba Explorers Camp offers both land-based activities – day and night 4WD game drives as well as walks – and (when water levels allow) water-based activities such as mokoro (dug-out canoe) and motorboat trips. On our most recent visit in November 2019, water levels were too low for any water-based activities, but on our two game drives we saw a good variety of plains game, as well as a coalition of four male lions and a leopard,

The camp combines well with its more luxurious sister camp, Duba Plains, which is situated further south in the concession.

Geographics

Location
Okavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana
Ideal length of stay
3 nights
Directions
Access is by light aircraft. It is a 45-minute flight from Maun to the Vumbura airstrip, followed by a 45-minute drive to the camp
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
During our stay in November 2019 we found the food to be of a high standard, although the portions were rather small. We understand that with advance notice most dietary needs can be catered for.

A wake-up call is accompanied by tea or coffee. Rather unusually breakfast is enjoyed while out on your morning safari. Ours included muesli, yoghurt, boiled eggs, scones, bread, grated cheese, jams and honey, with tea and coffee to drink.

For lunch a tasty mixed platter consisted of curried vegetables, lightly fried fish, butternut and pumpkin seed salad, an unusual strawberry and mushroom salad, cheese and crackers and dried and fresh fruit.

Our four-course dinner started with a cold beetroot and apple soup, followed by a melon and citrus salad with a herb oil dressing and yoghurt. The main course was fillet steak served with a butternut purée and steamed vegetables. Dessert was rum-and-raisin ice-cream, watermelon sorbet, lemon curd and gooseberry coulis. While dinner was tasty and well presented the portions were tiny.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Drinks included
All drinks that are stocked in camp, including premium brand spirits and champagne.

Special interests

Wildlife safaris
See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Botswana
Luxury
Duba Explorers Camp harks back to the romantic 1920’s-expeditions style. Being in a remote part of this concession, exclusivity is high on the agenda. The owners value attentive service, superb guiding and excellent food. We’d expect nothing less for your luxury safari holiday.
See ideas for Luxury in Botswana

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of eight years and above are welcome at Duba Explorers Camp. Families with young children do not require a private vehicle.
Property’s age restrictions
Children must be at least 12 years old to participate in walking safaris and mekoro excursions.
Special activities & services
The camp has a special children’s programme, which involves a range of experiences and topics – from birding and cooking to art and wildlife tracking.
Equipment
There is no family tent so it is not ideal for families as it means one adult would have to share with one child for safety reasons.
Generally recommended for children
Younger children may get bored as he general atmosphere of the camp is quite “grown-up” and it is mostly frequented by couples.
Notes
The camp is not fenced and is surrounded by water so children must be under the constant supervision of their parents.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Duba Explorers Camp

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Duba Explorers Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Lion

92% success

Buffalo

91% success

Leopard

87% success

Spotted Hyena

73% success

Wild dog

67% success

Sable antelope

63% success

Roan antelope

25% success

Cheetah

20% success

White Rhino

10% success

Pangolin

5% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator. Power is available all day
Communications
Wi-Fi (weak signal) is available in the tents only. There is a radio link to the other camps and to a base in Maun.
TV & radio
No
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All the bathrooms are plumbed, with hot showers and flushing toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Maun. All management and guides are first aid trained and medical evacuation is available in case of emergencies. There is a nurse on call (via radio) 24 hours a day.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
The camp managers and all the staff sleep on site. Each room has a foghorn to attract attention in case of emergency. At night guests are escorted by a staff member to their tents.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are dotted around camp.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Fishing

    Fishing

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Mokoro

    Mokoro

  • Night drive

    Night drive

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Included
Money
There is a safe in each tent.
Accepted payment on location
The camp can accept payment for extras in US dollars, euros, pounds, rand and Botswana pula. Mastercard and Visa is also accepted.

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Duba Explorers Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Duba Explorers Camp.


Excursions from Duba Explorers Camp

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Duba Explorers Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Various: from 30 minutes to half a day.

Low-flying, agile and offering superb views, helicopters are an ideal way to move around the Okavango Delta.You can use them instead of fixed-wing inter-lodge transfers or as an addition to other wildlife watching activities, and of course, helicopters can hover to allow that perfect pic, whereas fixed-wings can’t.

More about Helicopter Flight
100% (2 reviews)

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When to go to Okavango Delta Safari Reserves

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Duba Explorers Camp in Okavango Delta Safari Reserves


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in January

January marks the peak of the rainy season in the Okavango Delta. Evening rains are often short but heavy, accompanied by occasional dramatic thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high, although cooler than the preceding months of October to December. Wildlife can be harder to spot as animals spread out across the lush floodplains.

This month is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with migratory species in abundance over flooded areas. Rising water levels in parts of the Delta make mokoro safaris possible, offering serene and immersive experiences. The vibrant greenery and dramatic skies provide stunning opportunities for photography. With relatively low rates and fewer visitors, January is ideal for those seeking a quieter, budget-conscious Botswana safari.

  • Warm temperatures with frequent evening showers
  • Birdlife at its most spectacular in the Delta
  • Wildlife dispersed, but insects and smaller creatures abound
  • Excellent availability in Delta lodges and camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in February

February mirrors January’s weather patterns, with heavy rains and slightly cooler temperatures. The Delta’s landscape is at its greenest and teeming with life. Smaller animals, insects, and vibrant birdlife dominate, as many species raise their young. The rains create temporary pools and waterholes, further dispersing larger game, while thick vegetation and tall grass adds to the challenge of spotting big wildlife.

However, Moremi Game Reserve and select areas of the Delta still offer excellent game viewing opportunities. Rising water levels enhance water activities, with boat safaris providing unique access to the Delta’s watery beauty. February is particularly rewarding for photographers seeking lush landscapes and dramatic skies and birdwatchers, with many migratory species present.

  • Warm with occasional thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young in the Delta
  • Big game dispersed throughout wetlands
  • Big game dispersed, but viewing improves in drier areas
  • Lower visitor numbers and great lodge availability

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in March

March marks the gradual end of the main rainy season in the Okavango Delta. Sunny days become more frequent, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The Delta remains lush and vibrant, with wildlife activity increasing as animals finish raising their young and begin congregating around permanent water sources.

Rising water levels make boat safaris a highlight, offering intimate access to the Delta’s waterways. Birdwatching is excellent, with both resident and migratory species thriving. With fewer visitors, March offers a quieter, more personal safari experience.

  • Rains taper off but temperatures remain warm
  • Occasional small thunderstorms in Delta
  • Wildlife begins congregating around water sources
  • Ideal conditions for boat safaris
  • Few tourists and attractive rates at camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in April

April brings clearer skies to the Okavango Delta, with the landscape remaining green and lush. Night temperatures begin to drop, especially in the southern Delta. The annual floods from Angola start to flow through the northern Delta, filling channels and lagoons, creating ideal conditions for water-based activities like boat safaris.

Wildlife viewing improves as vegetation thins and predator activity increases with cooler evenings. Moremi Game Reserve and the private concessions offer rewarding game drives, and walking safaris on the larger islands, such as Chief’s Island, become popular during this time. Birdwatching remains excellent, with many migratory species still present. April’s combination of pleasant weather, wildlife activity, and relatively low rates makes it a rewarding time to visit.

  • Cooler evenings and occasional light showers
  • Floodwaters begin to fill Delta channels
  • Predator-prey interactions increase
  • Ideal for walking safaris and boat trips
  • Popular shoulder season, rates fairly low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in May

May is a popular time to visit the Okavango Delta, marking the last month of the shoulder season. The annual floods continue to spread through the Delta, transforming the landscape. Cooler mornings and evenings encourage predator activity, while thinning vegetation makes wildlife spotting easier, though some tall grasses may still obstruct views.

May offers excellent photographic opportunities with clear, crisp air. It's a favourite time for many visitors, combining good wildlife sightings with pleasant weather. Camp bookings throughout the Delta fill up quickly during this period.

This is a perfect month for scenic flights, offering breathtaking views of the advancing floodwaters. Mokoro trips through the Delta’s tranquil waterways provide a unique perspective on the environment. Camps start to fill quickly as the Delta’s combination of pleasant weather and excellent wildlife sightings makes it a favourite among safari-goers.

  • Cool mornings and evenings with little rain
  • Improved game viewing as Delta grasses thin
  • Predator activity increasing in drier areas
  • Scenic flights and water activities highly recommended
  • Last month of shoulder season for camps

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in June

June signals the start of the dry season in the Okavango Delta. Days are warm, with clear skies, while mornings and evenings can be cold, occasionally reaching freezing temperatures. The annual floods reach their peak, creating spectacular conditions for water-based activities like boat safaris along the Khwai River and in private concessions.

Wildlife concentrates around permanent water sources as surface water dries up, improving game viewing. The thinning vegetation and crisp, clear air make June perfect for photography. High demand for camp bookings reflects its popularity, as this month combines great game viewing and pleasant weather.

  • Warm days, cold mornings and nights
  • Peak floodwaters make boat safaris unforgettable
  • Wildlife congregates around permanent water sources
  • Excellent conditions for photography
  • High demand for camps and lodges

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in June

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in July

July offers cool mornings and evenings with warm, sunny days, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. The floodwaters remain at their peak, providing excellent opportunities for boat safaris. Vegetation continues to thin, enhancing visibility on game drives in Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango’s private reserves.

Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common sights as they gather near water sources. Predator sightings, including lions and leopards, increase as prey concentrates. Birdwatching is rewarding, and the crisp winter air creates stunning photographic conditions. July is one of the most popular months to visit, with many lodges fully booked well in advance.

  • Comfortable days, cold mornings and nights
  • Excellent game viewing and predator activity
  • Moremi and Khwai areas become busy
  • Private concessions offer exclusivity
  • High season rates; advance bookings essential

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in August

August remains a highly sought-after month for visiting the Okavango Delta. Nights are cool, while daytime temperatures rise gradually. Wildlife viewing is exceptional as animals concentrate near water sources, while the Delta’s floods are typically at their peak, offering picturesque settings for excellent boat safaris.

Walking safaris and game drives in areas like Moremi Game Reserve and Chief’s Island are particularly rewarding. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are common sights, and predator activity is high, with increased chances of seeing lions, leopards, and wild dogs hunting. The clear skies and lack of humidity create excellent stargazing conditions. With many travellers visiting during European and North American holidays, lodge availability can be challenging.

  • Dry, warm days and cool nights in the Delta
  • Fantastic wildlife viewing near water sources
  • Excellent opportunities for game drives and boat safaris
  • Cloudless skies, spectacular stargazing
  • High demand for accommodation – book early

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in September

September is a favourite for many safari-goers in the Okavango Delta. Daytime temperatures rise, but nights remain cool. The landscape transforms as greenery fades, and hazy conditions create dramatic sunsets. Wildlife viewing peaks as animals cluster around permanent water sources, with especially large numbers of elephants and buffalo. This concentration of prey attracts predators, increasing chances of witnessing exciting hunts.

The return of migratory birds enhances birdwatching. Water levels begin to recede, but boat cruises are still possible. Dusty conditions may challenge photographers, but the stunning landscapes and wildlife action more than make up for it.

  • Warm days, cool nights in the Delta
  • Prime month for Okavango wildlife viewing
  • Migratory birds return, enriching birdwatching
  • Spectacular sunsets and dramatic scenery
  • High season rates, many Delta camps full

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in October

October is the hottest and driest month in the Okavango Delta. Wildlife concentrates around the last remaining water sources, creating some of the most dramatic game viewing opportunities of the year. Predator-prey interactions are frequent and visibility is excellent, making for thrilling safaris.

Walking safaris are particularly rewarding, especially on smaller islands, but early starts are essential to avoid the midday heat. Towards the end of the month, the first rains may bring relief and begin rejuvenating the parched landscape. Despite the heat, October offers excellent big-game viewing and dramatic photographic moments of animal interactions.

  • Hot days, with late-month chances of rain
  • Outstanding big-game viewing near water sources
  • Water activities limited as floods recede
  • Walking safaris provide unique experiences
  • Final month of the peak safari season

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in October

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in November

November marks the start of the green season in the Delta. Rising humidity and temperatures often lead to the first heavy rains; these are typically short, heavy showers in the late afternoon or night, creating spectacular scenes and bringing a flush of green to the parched landscape. Wildlife begins to disperse as waterholes refill, but game drives still offer rewarding sightings.

Water levels may be low, limiting boat activities, but November is exceptional for birdwatching, with the arrival of many migratory species. Scenic flights highlight the contrast between dry and wet areas. The first two weeks are popular for travellers seeking good game viewing at lower rates as the Delta transitions into its shoulder season.

  • Hot, humid days in the Delta
  • Dramatic rain showers , increasing as month progresses
  • Migratory birds arrive in abundance
  • Wildlife watching good, but less predictable
  • Shoulder season offers mid-range rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Okavango Delta Safari Reserves in December

December sees the rainy season in full swing across the Okavango Delta, bringing some respite from high temperatures. Game viewing becomes more challenging as wildlife disperses, but great sightings can still be had. The landscape transforms dramatically, with lush vegetation sprouting across the Delta. This period is excellent for birdwatching, with numerous migratory species present.

Water levels begin to rise, gradually improving conditions for boat safaris. The green season offers unique photographic opportunities, with dramatic skies and newborn animals. December is ideal for visitors seeking a more intimate Delta experience, with fewer tourists and lower rates at many camps and lodges. The combination of wildlife, birdlife, and scenic beauty makes it a rewarding time to visit.

  • Warm temperatures
  • High chance of rain in short, heavy storms
  • Wildlife more dispersed across Delta
  • Game viewing more challenging in wetlands
  • Low-season rates and fewer visitors in most Delta camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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