Safari, Rewritten in Water

28 May 2026

Welcome to the other side of Africa, away from the dusty savannahs and endless plains dotted by baobab trees.

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The Okavango Delta is a floodplain, alive with wildlife of the sort usually observed as part of a David Attenborough documentary.

Not only do you have the opportunity to experience this delta; you can stay here, at Jacana Camp.

Jacana’s five tents and its main lodge, with elevated dining platform, lounge area and plunge pool, are situated on an island in the delta.

Surprisingly, you don’t need to stray far to get an eyeful of the amazing animals that live in the neighbourhood.

Elephants and hippos play in the water below the camp, wildebeest and deer graze on the lush growth, and the birdlife – from long- legged waterbirds to rare species like Pel’s fishing owl – is ridiculously abundant.

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During the day, glide silently through the water in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) or check out far-flung channels in one of Jacana’s motorboats. Land safaris take place in sturdy, open-sided 4WDs, and there’s even some basic fishing gear if you fancy throwing in a line.


To immerse travellers in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where water replaces roads and wildlife comes to you rather than the other way around.

Floating safari life on an island in the floodplains, where everything moves slowly, quietly and often right past your tent.

One of just five safari tents on a remote delta island, complete with elevated views, simple comfort and the constant possibility of a hippo cameo.

Gliding through the Okavango in a traditional mokoro while elephants and hippos go about their day just metres away.

Fresh, hearty safari meals served on an elevated deck overlooking the floodplains, best enjoyed as the delta shifts colour at sunset.

Swap the engine for silence and explore the waterways by mokoro at dawn, when the delta feels at its most alive and least disturbed.

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