Exploring the wild corners of Africa
Overlooking the inimitable landscape of Botswana’s iconic Moremi Game Reserve, Tawana uncovers a part of the Okavango Delta, from the luxury of the lodge, capturing the hearts of all safari enthusiasts. There’s no barrier between you and the boundless terrain of the wilderness at Tawana safari lodge. Nothing separating you from the Gomoti river and its sweeping floodplains.
The 400 different bird species, the buffalo, the zebra, the hippo, the giraffe, the elephant and the warthog. The lion and the leopard. The trees, the grasses, the lizards, and even the pangolin. The entire ecosystem of the Moremi Game Reserve is within reach. For you to observe, ponder its plethora of species, and be completely captivated by their presence, in northern Botswana.
As exhilarating as every close encounter will be, luxury also prevails within this UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Eight generously proportioned, secluded suites – five standard and three designed for families – stretch across the timber lodge. Each offering refined comfort through eco-conscious, over-bed air-conditioning. Fully stocked minibars, private plunge pools and open-air salas. Elevated on wooden decks to permit the unhindered passage of wildlife below, the suites rest beneath the cooling canopy of towering ebony trees. The views across the Okavango Delta are spectacular, and the feeling that you are somehow an integral part of it all is a truly unique experience.
Tawana is defined by its bespoke approach to safari hospitality. Imploring guests to observe the rhythm of the wilderness, and tap into its pacifying flow as it unfolds. So many lovely places to choose from, to read, relax and reconnect with the simple things. Enough dining settings to seat yourselves at. Beneath the thatched roof, the shady branches, or open to the starlit skies of Southern Africa.
There’s a walk-in wine cellar and a wood-fired pizza oven, forming the heart of the camp’s culinary offering. You and your chosen safari clan will unwind in the elegant lounges, shuffling between the indoor and al-fresco dining spaces, depending on the light. There’s a thoughtfully stocked curio shop, and a hearty library with enough options for a holiday read. As well as a section devoted to the history of Moremi Game Reserve, and the BaTawana people.
Spectacular riverside entertainment
There’s a huge density of predators in this particular region. Elephants constantly wading through the waters and antelope grazing the grasslands. You don’t need to venture out on a game drive to spot it all, in one frame. There will of course be those early morning moments or late afternoon excursions when you do take to the trails in the vehicle. Being escorted on a riveting ride with one of the incredible guides. Learning more about the land and the positive impact your visit has on it. The development of local communities, as well as supporting the projects that help to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Naturally, there will also be the mandatory safari moments of repose. Spa and wellness treatments are available in the privacy of your own suite, alongside in-room weights and yoga mats if you’d like to awaken the limbs. For those seeking a more active interlude, the camp features a 16-metre lap pool and a fully equipped gym.
Just so that you can freely tuck into all of the incredible meals that are served – breakfast, lunch, high tea, dinner and all of the treats in between. And justify the afternoon snooze, or long reclining sessions of gazing across the landscape from the outdoor lounge, around the fire pit, or on the expansive deck. Witnessing the drama of the life that unfolds in this special corner of the world. Where the wildlife relentlessly puts on a magnificent display.
What we love!
- Tawana, in partnership with Chief Tawana Moremi, is dedicated to preserving the eco-system, and celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. A truly unique and unforgettable safari experience, this is where guests can freely explore one of the last wild corners of Africa.
- This is one of the most biodiverse regions of Botswana, where wildlife spotting is an absolute treat. With high concentrations of large herbivores and antelope, the predator sightings are excellent. Especially when enjoying a bush sundowner.
- The luxury experienced at the lodge is authentically stitched together. Spacious suites with all of the safari trimmings. Each positioned for privacy, within a riverine forest. The interiors of the lodge blend the romance of a contemporary safari camp with unforgettable wildlife encounters.
What you need to know…
- The nearest major international airports are Johannesburg and Cape Town. Direct scheduled services land at Botswana’s Maun airport. From Maun, followed by a scenic helicopter flight to camp. Or a light aircraft transfer to Santawani airstrip for an onward road transfer and game drive to camp.
- Tawana rests in the Okavango Delta, surrounded by the expansive wetlands of the Moremi Game Reserve. The summer months are from October to March, known as the ‘green season’. The landscape is at it most scenic during this time, though it can be extremely hot, with temperatures above 35°C. This is the best time for birding, with the arrival of summer migrant species.
- Entirely unfenced, the wildlife wander through camp, almost unaware. Giving you the experience of feeling completely immersed. The experienced guides are around at all times, walking with you to and from your rooms should you require their assistance. They are always happy to escort you. In the morning, one of the ladies will bring coffee or tea to your suites as a cheerful wake-up call.
- Tawana is 100% solar, with 24-hour electricity in the rooms operating both the air-conditioning system over the bed and a fan. Wi-Fi is only available in the suites.The game drive vehicles are open and accommodate a maximum of 7 guests (with a private vehicle for extra exclusivity).
- If Tawana is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses and lodges in Botswana and the Okavango Delta.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie