Aardwolf 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).

"The staff were all very welcoming ... Our guide was very good"

Mrs P.fromUnited Kingdom

Arrived 17 Mar 2023, 3 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

Riverine forest, open floodplains and the river itself: it’s a winning combination for wildlife at Gomoti Plains Camp. And the best of it is that for guests here, exploring the surrounding area – whether on a 4WD game drive, on the water or even on foot – is exclusive to them.

Overlooking a tributary of the Gomoti River, the camp lies in a private, community-run reserve in the south-east of the iconic Okavango Delta. Shaded by tall, elegant palms and mature leadwoods, it’s in a beautiful spot, its 10 safari tents reached along sandy paths that meander through the vegetation.

While paraffin-style lanterns set a classic safari tone at dusk, the interior of each tent has a far more contemporary feel: smart, light and bright, with wooden floors and anglepoise lamps. Chairs and a daybed on the wooden deck mean you can watch for wildlife in comfort – and privacy. Outdoor (as well as indoor) showers add a hint of adventure; in-room spa treatments a touch of indulgence.

"guide Oracle was excellent... Bush dinner on our last night was really special."

Mr W & Ms W + kidsfromNL

Arrived 3 Aug 2023, 3 nights

The light hand behind the décor runs through the main area, where high stools at the bar contrast with large sofas and armchairs in the lounge. A pool deck set with sunloungers, chairs around a convivial firepit, and the potential for communal dining encourage a truly inclusive atmosphere; what better way to mull over the day? See our full report on Gomoti Plains Camp