Sandibe Safari Lodge stands beside the Santantadibe River, from where the lodge gets its name, a deep, wide channel that leads to a number of beautiful lagoons. The lodge is situated in the Chitabe Concession Area, also known as NG 31, an area of 28,000km² in the famous, untamed Okavango Delta.

Characteristic of the region are the dry plains that are converted into a flourishing oasis by seasonal floods, creating a sensational diversity of flora and fauna. Spectacular wildlife viewing and birding opportunities spring to life with the change.

Access to Sandibe is by fly-in to Chitabe Airstrip and transfer by a 30 min game drive. Visitors staying at either Chitabe Camp or Chitabe Lediba can also transfer to Sandibe by road.

The main lodge is an impressive 2 storey 'traditional barn' structure. On the ground floor there is an inviting lounge area, with a well-stocked 'help yourself' fridge. Opposite is a covered dining area. The entire lodge is decorated with creative African art pieces, and the traditional reed baskets were made by the lodge's staff. The stairs to the first floor open out to a sitting area of comfortable chairs and sofas. This is the best view of the resident colony of epauletted fruit bats that lodge in the rafters.

The well-stocked curio shop sells a range of goods, such as traditional baskets, jewellery, African carvings, hats, T-shirts and a selection of toiletries. Just down from the lodge is a small splash pool, built into a shaded raised deck, with sun-loungers provided.

A light breakfast of toast, freshly-cooked muffins, fruit, cereal and tea and coffee, is served prior to the early morning activities. A substantial hot brunch is offered around 11h00, for example a beef stew and vegetables, along with a selection of cold salad dishes, cheeses and bread.

Afternoon tea is served at 16h00. Expect a savoury snack, refreshing iced tea, and a freshly baked cake or pie. Weather permitting, a lamp-lit dinner is served in the boma with a choice of main dishes every night such as grilled fish and chicken.

Accommodation is in 8 spacious stone, cottage-style rooms, elevated on separate viewing decks and river facing. They have been constructed under a canopy of trees, but are high enough to look out over the surrounding bush and reed beds. En-suite bathrooms, flushing toilet, outside shower, mosquito nets, electric lamps, writing desk, storage and hanging space, fans and safes are standard. Soaps and scrubs, shampoo, gel and conditioner, are provided, as are mosquito repellents and various other 'anti-bug stuff'. It is advisable not leave anything in the outside shower, or the baboons will help themselves.

Buffalo, elephant and lion are in abundance with occasional sightings of the African wild dog. Large herds of impala attract leopard.

Sandibe Safari Lodge is well known for offering flexible departure times for their activities

Okavango Delta Lodges | Botswana

Birding

This is a great area for raptors including African hawk eagle and the hooded vulture, which often nest on the island. Ground hornbill, greater honeyguide, scarlet-chested sunbird, red-billed hornbill, gabar goshawk and coveys of red-billed francolin are also around. The greater honeyguide is known to lead humans to bees' nests in the hope of a favourable return.

Game drives

Morning and afternoon game drives in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles are complemented with night drives, an opportunity to view some of the more unusual nocturnal creatures.

Boat trips

'Glide as they guide' on a specially-designed 'silent' electric boat along the permanent waterways of the Delta. An equally exciting mode of transport is by mokoro, a 'dug-out' canoe, propelled and guided by a poler, a local guy who's expertise and knowledge will lead you on a mini-adventure in the Delta.

Bush walks

Walking around the bush is just as dramatic as game viewing by vehicle or boat. Knowledgeable and professional guides will follow tracks and spoors, leading you through the bush in search of interesting wildlife.

• Children of 12 years of age and over are accepted.
• Children under this age may be accepted by prior arrangement.
• Children under 12 will not be able to participate in any of the game activities.