Baine's Camp is situated adjacent to the Boro River in a 1,050km² private concession – NG32, located in the Okavango Delta and bordering the Moremi Game Reserve. It is named after the famed Victorian explorer and artist Thomas Baines. Access to the camp is by fly-in and transfer by a 45min road trip, depending on wildlife activity and water levels.

The Okavango Delta is one of the world’s largest inland water systems and is Botswana's most famous and popular tourist attraction. There are an unparalleled system of waterways and channels in the Delta that support the most amazing varieties of flora and fauna. Animal life departs in the dry season in search of water, but return to the region simultaneously as the rainy season begins. As a result wildlife congregate around the flooded areas between May – October. This becomes the best time of the year for game viewing.

The central lodge area is built on raised wooden decking around a large termite mound. It overlooks a perennial lagoon, where hippos can often be seen wallowing and snorting! It contains a comfortable lounge and small library area and the dining area is at the far end. Meals can be taken in either the cover of the open-sided restaurant or in the outside dining area, depending on the weather. Souveniers can be purchased in the well-stocked curio shop.

There is also a lovely small infinity pool, perfect for cooling off in the heat of the day, with comfortable sunbeds, sun-umbrellas and a shady sala at either end – an ideal retreat to escape the hot afternoon sunshine.

Accommodation is in either 3 twin rooms or 2 double rooms. They are all connected by raised wooden walkways and constructed using the very innovative mix of thatch roofs supported by walls made of solid aluminium cans, wire mesh and elephant dung. They are much more pleasant than they sound! Inside the main bedroom area opens out with large French doors to a private and raised wooden deck. The 4-poster bed (complete with mosquito net) can be wheeled out onto the deck for a night's sleep under the stars - ideal for honeymooners. Large wardrobe cupboards, a mini-fridge, a hair-dryer, ceiling fan, torch, intercom system and mosquito repellent are standard! An easel is also provided in each room for the more artistically minded.

The en-suite bathrooms are connected to the main bedroom areas by an enclosed corridor. They have flushing toilet, shower cubicles and double-sinks and accompanying full-length mirrors. Running hot and cold water and a selection of toiletries including shampoo, conditioner and shower gel, complete the luxury in the bush.

Although not the best area for wildlife viewing in the Delta, sightings can include zebra, giraffe, impala, bushbaby, genets, spring hares and at times - elephant. The large trees and grassy islands are a great habitat for lion and leopard.

Ornithology is excellent here with plenty of waterbirds and raptors. Fish eagles, marsh harriers, crested barbet, pied and woodland kingfishers, bateleur eagles and tawny eagles can be observed.

All tours are conducted by locally trained guides, who are both knowledgeable and professional in their duties.

Security and safety:

• As there is a high risk of dangerous animals wandering through the camp, guests are escorted back to their rooms at night. This is particularly handy if you've been in the bar since lunchtime.
• There are intercom systems in all the rooms. Guests can contact the manager in case of emergency.
• There are smoke detectors in the rooms, along with fire extinguishers.
• The camp also has a water-trailer which can be utilized in the event of fire.

Okavango Delta Lodges | Botswana

Game Drives

As Baines Camp is situated within a private concession, both day and night 4WD safari drives can be organized, especially searching for elephants.

Walking safaris

A guided walking safari can be arranged if the camp manager feels it is safe to do so. This is a great way to get close to some of the larger mammals without disturbing them.

Boat trips

Cruising along the waterways and channels can be organized usually when the water levels are high enough (June-Sept). Choose between a dug-out canoe or motorboat – or both if you have the time.

• Children over 12 years of age are welcome.
• There are no special activities or equipment provided for children.