Botswana is a sanctuary for wildlife lovers and safari connoisseurs with its vast wilderness, network of pristine waterways and diverse ecosystems creating some of the most spectacular safari landscapes in Africa. 

For those seeking comfort alongside exceptional wildlife encounters, the country’s luxury lodges and camps represent the pinnacle of safari hospitality. From world-class game viewing in the Okavango Delta to intimate luxury in remote concessions, here is a guide to the ten best safari lodges and camps in Botswana that every discerning traveller should consider. 

1. Mombo Camp (Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta)

Mombo Camp is often described as one of the finest safari camps in Africa and is consistently praised for its extraordinary wildlife density and prime location on Chief’s Island. With expansive views over sweeping floodplains, suites here combine classic safari style with elegant touches, private decks and exceptional guiding that reveal Big Five encounters and exceptional predator sightings.

Its elevated walkways and secluded setting create a sense of exclusive bush tranquillity that few other lodges can match. 

2. Jao Camp (Okavango Delta, Private Reserve)

Situated deep in a private concession west of Moremi, Jao Camp showcases contemporary design with a strong connection to the landscape. Suites and villas include private plunge pools and large decks overlooking lagoons, with game viewing both from land and by watercraft. 

Its remoteness amplifies the sense of wilderness while experienced guides deliver personalised safari experiences throughout your stay. 

3. Xigera Safari Lodge (Okavango Delta)

Xigera reimagines luxury in the Delta with stunning architecture, artwork sourced from across Africa and refined interiors that complement its setting amongst riverine forests. 

Widely regarded as one of Botswana’s premier properties, this lodge delivers excellent game viewing, fine dining and unique cultural touches that enrich every stay. The property also features a treehouse accommodation for guests seeking something truly special. 

4. Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge (Okavango Delta)

Sandibe Okavango blends elegant design with a natural aesthetic, inspired by the pangolin with its curved, shingled exterior. Set in a private concession adjacent to Moremi, this lodge offers sweeping views across floodplains, spacious suites with plunge pools and personalised service. 

Safari activities focus on game drives, mokoro excursions and cultural encounters, making it ideal for travellers who appreciate both wildlife and comfort. 

5. Duba Plains Camp (Okavango Delta)

Duba Plains Camp, set in the remote Kakoro Concession, offers
intimate luxury with only a handful of suites and private plunge pools. Its location next to waterways and floodplains draws wildlife throughout the year, while elevated decks and fine service make it a standout choice for travellers wanting a classic safari atmosphere with high-end comfort. 

6. Zarafa Camp (Selinda Reserve)

Zarafa Camp stands out for its private, ultra-luxury setting in the Selinda Reserve, one of southern Africa’s most exclusive wildlife areas. Overlooking the Zibadianja Lagoon, this camp offers uninterrupted views, elegant interior design and personalised service. 

Wild dog sightings, elephant herds and big cats are common here, providing guests with unforgettable wildlife moments. 

7. Selinda Camp (Selinda Reserve)

Also in the Selinda Reserve, Selinda Camp combines expansive floodplain views with a refined safari experience. 

Suites are elevated to capture the broad vistas, while activities include game drives, walking safaris and boating on waterways. Guests often mention the quality of guiding and culinary excellence here as highlights of their stay. 

8. DumaTau Camp (Linyanti Wildlife Reserve)

In northern Botswana’s Linyanti, DumaTau Camp delivers classic water-linked safaris with well-appointed tents, private plunge pools and attentive service. 

Wildlife moves freely throughout the landscape here, and birdlife is abundant. Elephant herds, lions and leopards frequent the reserve, making every drive a potential highlight. 

9. Abu Camp (Okavango Delta)

Abu Camp is famed for its traditional elephant back safaris, offering an alternative way to explore the Delta’s wildlife. Tented suites provide elegant comfort, with thatched lounges overlooking floodplains alive with game. 

Morning and afternoon game drives are complemented by canoe excursions led by skilled guides, offering varied perspectives on the Delta’s ecosystem. 

10. Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge (Chobe National Park)

For travellers wanting to combine luxury with dramatic wildlife behaviour, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge is ideal. Located in the Savute area of Chobe National Park, the property overlooks waterholes that draw large elephant herds and predators alike. 

Luxury tents with private decks and both indoor and outdoor showers create a stylish, intimate setting from which to watch wildlife drama unfold. 

Choosing the Right Luxury Safari Experience

These ten lodges and camps each represent a different facet of Botswana’s rich safari offerings. From the classic Delta game viewing of Mombo and Xigera to the exclusive remoteness of Zarafa and DumaTau, your choice may depend on whether you prefer water-based safaris, intimate camps with few guests, or broad ecosystems featuring large herds of elephants and predators. 

November to March offers lush landscapes and birdlife for water lovers, while the dry season from June to October generally concentrates wildlife around water sources for excellent game viewing.

Luxury safari lodges in Botswana not only provide high-end accommodation, they place guests in the heart of the wilderness. With attentive service, top chefs, and expert guides, your safari becomes far more than a holiday, it becomes a memory that stays with you long after you have returned home.