Wilderness Mokete

In-Depth Review of Wilderness Mokete in Botswana - AFAR

"Set on the little-visited Mababe Depression on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, this tiny, nine-tent camp occupies a 124,000‑acre private concession teeming with elephants, giraffes, zebras, leopards in the mopane fringe, rare roan antelope, horizon-stretching buffalo mega‑herds and an unusually high density of lions that often stage hair-raising displays. As the only camp in the concession (with at most four other vehicles roaming the roads), guests have a strong sense of exclusivity, making it ideal for seasoned safari enthusiasts and wildlife photographers—especially those who want to use the sunken hide at the aptly named “Elephant Paradise” watering hole. Access is remote—a small-plane flight from Maun to Santawani followed by a 20-minute helicopter transfer over the Mababe grasslands (a nearer airstrip is planned)—and long drives between sightings are possible, so game drives and meals are communal unless you pay extra for a private vehicle; that communal setup encourages conversation but makes the camp less suitable for honeymooners, introverts, or families with children under 16. The nine elevated tents each have a terrace, plunge pool, gauzy window screens instead of solid walls, light sisal-and-leather interiors and a sliding canvas roof to fall asleep under the stars. Food is simple but well executed (Mediterranean salads, African stews and local riffs such as a Caesar made with amasi), with bush breaks featuring Amarula‑spiked coffee and sunset pop‑up bars. Staff are all Botswanan—mostly from nearby Mababe village—and eager to please, and the operator emphasizes conservation and low‑impact practices (solar power, reverse‑osmosis water, refillable tumblers, locally sourced produce and on‑site waste sorting) to protect important migration corridors and prolific bird and mammal life." - Chris Schalkx