Chitabe Camp is set in a fascinating environment of open floodplains, waterways, marshlands, dry acacia and mopane woodland. Together with riverine forest and open grasslands, it is a notable contrast to areas further north. The immediate camp area itself, is surrounded by ancient ebony, leadwood and the seemingly ever-present sausage trees.

This camp, which accommodates a maximum of 10 people, is ideal for small parties wanting their own exclusive camp, as well as individuals who prefer the quiet life. It is situated on the same forested island as Chitabe Lediba and they are both accessible by fly-in and transfer only, via a short flight from either Maun or Kasane. There is a short 30min drive to the Chitabe camp from the airstrip.

Access to the main area is by a wooden walkway which leads up to the thatched dining, pub and comfortable lounge areas, built on elevated decks to provide superb views of immediate wildlife across the floodplain. Here, you will find a very original bar indeed, hewn from a single trunk of a sausage tree, fully stocked with a wide variety of soft drinks, local beers, decent red and white wines and a selection of local spirits! To the right of the bar there is a walkway which leads to a small library, nestled in the arms of the branches of a large tree. In the centre of the main area, a set of large steps lead down to a round 'boma' complete with central fire-pit, a popular venue of an evening for exchanging the day's adventures.

The popular pool and sun deck also overlooks the plains, and it doubles as a great chill-out zone for a bit of reading or a splash in the pool during the afternoon. There is also a complimentary laundry service. The small curio shop is worth a visit, with traditional Okavango crafts and baskets on sale made by the local staff.

Electricity is supplied by a generator that is turned off as guests return from their activities. This reverts the camp to a peaceful and tranquil setting. A system of inverters and charged batteries are then used to supply lights/fans throughout the night. Hair-dryers have been deemed unsuitable.

Accommodation at Chitabe is in 8 luxury, spacious Meru-style tents, constructed on raised wooden decks amongst the trees. Each tent has standard facilities including twin beds, en-suite facilities, with flush toilets, shower and basin with hot and cold running water. There is both indoor and outdoor shower.

Due to large populations of dangerous game, and the fact that Chitabe Camp is unfenced, guests are escorted to their rooms after dark. Alarm sirens or whistles are provided in the rooms in case of emergency.

Wildlife:

The Chitabe concession area is renowned for its African wild dog population and regular lion and leopard sightings, plus tsessebe, blue wildebeest, giraffe, zebra, reedbuck, duiker and steenbok. Pangolin has also been viewed in the concession.

Ornithology:

Birdwatching is thoroughly enjoyable in the Chitabe area. It has a wide range of species including Pel's fishing owl, slaty egret, brown snake eagle, wattled crane, saddle-billed stork, woolly necked stork, marsh harrier, tawny eagle, black coucal, black egret, martial eagle and of course the African fish eagle.

Okavango Delta Lodges | Botswana

Game drive

Morning and afternoon game drives dominate. Chitabe is strictly a game viewing area – there are no water activities offered here. Day and night time game drives are in open 4x4 vehicles and you will be accompanied by an experienced guide. Expect to return from the afternoon's activities at night, which takes advantage of seeing some of the nocturnal animals on the same trip.

Game walks

An armed and experienced guide will accompany you on your walk. These exciting excursions are a speciality at Chitabe, and are highly recommended for the more energetic and adventurous of travellers.

The Chitabe Trail

The Chitabe walking trail is still considered to be one of the most exciting ways to get really close up to nature. On the Chitabe Trail, an armed guard will accompany you on an informative and adventurous tour through the different habitats of the Delta.

Children: Children are welcome at Chitabe Camp but some restrictions apply. 12 years and over are welcome but unfortunately 7 years and under are not accepted. The camp may accept children from the ages of 8 – 12 years old, if a private vehicle is booked and requested in advance.

Please note: When children are accepted at this camp, they tend to be kept separate from other guests. The walkways to the rooms are raised fairly high off the ground.