Duke’s Camp is a luxurious safari retreat located in the northern Okavango Delta, Botswana. Opened in 2022 and part of Natural Selection's portfolio, the camp is named in honor of Sarefo “Duke” Sarefo, the custodian of the land. Duke’s Camp offers an authentic under-canvas experience, blending traditional safari elegance with modern comforts. The camp reflects the signature style of the Bousfield family, renowned for their pioneering approach to luxury safaris, ensuring an immersive and intimate safari experience in one of Africa’s most pristine environments.
Awarded: Silver
Location
Set on a private 220,000-acre concession, Duke’s Camp is nestled on Kgao Island along the shores of a permanent lagoon. This remote location in the northern Okavango Delta provides a secluded and intimate safari experience. The camp’s setting amidst lush delta waterways and tawny grasslands offers a pristine backdrop for wildlife viewing and adventure. The vast concession ensures guests feel as though they have the entire area to themselves, enhancing the sense of exclusivity and immersion in nature. The camp is located just north of the iconic Vumbura and Duba Plains, ensuring a truly wild and untouched corner of the Delta.
Rooms
Duke’s Camp features eight luxurious canvas safari suites, including five twin tents, two double tents, and one family unit with a private plunge pool. Each tent is elevated on wooden decks and designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. The interiors are adorned with hand-carved four-poster beds, Persian rugs, and vintage safari décor, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. En-suite bathrooms boast brass fittings and offer both indoor and outdoor showers. Private viewing decks provide a tranquil space for guests to observe the diverse wildlife of the Okavango Delta. The tents, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, offer plush linens, feather duvets, and tasteful furnishings that create a serene retreat in the midst of the wilderness.
Communal Areas
The communal areas at Duke’s Camp are a blend of old-world charm and modern elegance. The main mess tent is decorated with antique oriental rugs, campaign furniture, and intricately carved tables. Guests can relax in the tea tent, enjoy a drink at the well-stocked bar, or unwind in the lounge and library area. Meals are served in a communal dining tent, where guests can share stories and experiences while enjoying gourmet cuisine. Outside, a small plunge pool and a firepit offer additional spaces for relaxation and socializing, with stunning views of the delta. The communal areas are designed to foster a sense of community while allowing guests to soak in the tranquility of the Okavango Delta.
Activities
Duke’s Camp offers a wide range of activities designed to showcase the rich biodiversity of the Okavango Delta. Guests can embark on morning and afternoon game drives to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other wildlife. Mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions provide a unique perspective of the delta’s waterways, while fishing and sunset boat trips offer further exploration opportunities. For an unforgettable experience, guests can spend a night fly-camping on a remote island or take a scenic helicopter flight over the delta. The camp’s expert guides ensure every activity is both educational and exhilarating. Additionally, guests can enjoy birdwatching, with over 350 species recorded in the area, or visit the nearby Tsodilo Hills to explore ancient rock art.
Duke’s Camp combines luxury with an authentic safari experience, providing a unique and unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Okavango Delta. The commitment to sustainability and deep respect for the surrounding natural ecosystems make Duke’s Camp a standout for discerning travelers.
Fully inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Many animals give birth to their young during this period, bringing a new lease of life to the area. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species. Water levels are low, not ideal for water-based actives.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Many animals give birth to their young during this period, bringing a new lease of life to the area. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species. Water levels are low, not ideal for water-based actives.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Many animals give birth to their young during this period, bringing a new lease of life to the area. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species. Water levels are low, not ideal for water-based actives.
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are quite hot, averaging 31°C/88°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON
The Okavango River begins to flood the delta, gradually from north to south, drawing in wildlife from surrounding areas as the dry season progresses.
Midday temperatures are more pleasant, falling to an average high of 31°C/88°F by May. Mornings can be surprisingly cool, so it is advisable to pack some warm clothes.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON – START OF THE DELTA FLOODS
The Okavango River begins to flood the delta, gradually from north to south, drawing in wildlife from surrounding areas as the dry season progresses.
Midday temperatures are more pleasant, falling to an average high of 31°C/88°F by May. Mornings can be surprisingly cool, so it is advisable to pack some warm clothes.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON – DELTA IN FLOOD
The landscape continues to dry up around Botswana, with the exception of the Okavango Delta which continues to flood – this stark difference pulls in huge volumes of wildlife, offering spectacular game viewing opportunities.
Midday temperatures are rather cool averaging around 25°C/77°F, mornings are cold, occasionally sub-zero, so be sure to pack warm clothes!
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON – DELTA IN FLOOD
The landscape continues to dry up around Botswana, with the exception of the Okavango Delta which continues to flood – this stark difference pulls in huge volumes of wildlife, offering spectacular game viewing opportunities.
Midday temperatures are rather cool averaging around 25°C/77°F, mornings are cold, occasionally sub-zero, so be sure to pack warm clothes!
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate. Midday temperatures begin to rise and can at times be hot. Morning remain surprisingly cool.
Botswana has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from October through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. As Botswana is predominately a safari destination we would generally recommend visiting during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up, wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourse while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility.
Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
There are also two significant exceptions to the above rule of thumb; Kalahari Desert and the Makgadikgadi which come into their own during the wet season as wildlife moves in to take advantage of the fresh, lush grass.
Temperatures can be very high in and around the wet season; when the sunlight is at its strongest, however nights can be cool to sub-freezing throughout the year. So, don’t forget to pack warm clothing!
DRY SEASON – DELTA IN FLOOD
The landscape continues to dry up around Botswana, with the exception of the Okavango Delta which is now in full flood – this stark difference pulls in huge volumes of wildlife, offering spectacular game viewing opportunities.
Midday temperatures are a pleasant to hot averaging between 28°C/82°F and 32°C/77°F. Mornings are cool, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
DRY SEASON
It has been months since the initial flooding of the Okavango River, leading ultimately to the flooding of the vast Okavango Delta; the flood waters now gradually recede as time moves on.
Game viewing remains spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers, at the same time the delta levels continue to drop; ultimately this disperses wildlife out of the delta.
The temperatures remain hot, while the humidity adds level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be good, but just be prepared for a little heat.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Many animals give birth to their young during this period, bringing a new lease of life to the area. This is also a great time of year to see migratory bird species. Water levels are low, not ideal for water-based actives.
Like the rest of Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Moremi areas have very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain occurs sporadically usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from late October through to April, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. Although the region offers fantastic game viewing throughout the year, the best period to visit is during the floods which conversely corresponds to the dry season. The annual flooding of the delta acts like a magnet drawing in huge concentrations of wildlife, it is simply unlike anything else in Africa!
Once the rains arrive wildlife tends to move outside of the delta to graze on the fresh grass in areas such as the Kalahari. Game viewings can still be good, birding fantastic and prices significantly less than the dry season.
Explore Okavango Delta & Moremi Game Reserve Properties
-
Abu Camp
Abu Camp
Hidden amongst lush riverside vegetation, Wilderness Safaris Abu Camp offers high-end luxury and comfort within an extraordinary landscape. The diverse landscape provides ..
-
Camp Moremi
Camp Moremi
Exquisitely decorated and with a fantastic setting among the riverine forests of the Okavango Delta Camp Moremi is the ideal destination for those looking to combine ..
-
Camp Okavango
Camp Okavango
Immersed in the untouched beauty of the Okavango Delta, Camp Okavango stands as a beacon of luxury and ecological harmony. Built on the secluded Nxaragha Island, this ..
-
Camp Xakanaxa
Camp Xakanaxa
Part of Delta & Desert’s impressive Botswanan portfolio, Camp Xakanaxa offers a classic safari experience, with traditional Meru tented suites, excellent guiding on ..
-
Chitabe Camp
Chitabe Camp
A stylish and comfortable camp on a forest-filled island, Chitabe Camp is an elevated accommodation with heaps of charm and a host of dedicated staff. Discover a myriad ..
-
Chitabe Lediba
Chitabe Lediba
Chitabe Lediba is a small, smart camp in a prime position for year-round game viewing. Sister camp to the larger Chitabe Camp, the property occupies the same island and ..
-
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Explorers Camp
This Great Plains Conservation property is part of the Explorers Collection designed by Dereck and Beverly Joubert, Duba Explorers Camp embodies the true spirit of ..
-
Duba Plains Camp
Duba Plains Camp
Part of the impressive Great Plains Conservation portfolio, Duba Plains Camp in the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta has a beautiful setting and comfortable, well-appointed ..
-
Duba Plains Suite
Duba Plains Suite
Slotting perfectly into the landscape, Great Plains Conservation's Duba Plains Suite is a very intimate two-tent camp evoking the atmosphere of a classic African safari. ..
-
Jacana Camp
Jacana Camp
This small camp is set on an equally small island, where the gently lapping water and slow pace of life gives guests a sense of being at peace with nature. Being located ..
-
Jao Camp
Jao Camp
In the heart of the Okavango Delta sits Jao, a Wilderness Safaris Premier Camp, dedicated to preserving the unique ecosystem which surrounds it. With its elevated, ..
-
Kanana
Kanana
Kanana Camp, part of Ker & Downey Botswana’s collection, is a unique safari destination located in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Known for its intimate size, ..
-
Kwando Splash Camp
Kwando Splash Camp
This new addition to the Kwando collection brings contemporary luxury to the classic safari experience. Set within the Kwara Reserve and adjacent to the Moremi Reserve, ..
-
Kwetsani Camp
Kwetsani Camp
Kwetsani Camp is a small, relaxed accommodation enjoying an elevated position overlooking the floodplains of the Okavango Delta. One of the more remote lodges in the ..
-
Little Mombo Camp
Little Mombo Camp
This charming camp neighbours its larger sister property, Mombo Camp. Ranked among the finest safari camps in Africa, Little Mombo has elegant rooms, a sublime location ..
-
Little Sable
Little Sable
Nestled in the heart of the game-rich Khwai Private Reserve, Little Sable stands as a charming sanctuary, offering a serene yet vibrant safari experience. As the "little ..
-
Little Tubu
Little Tubu
Little Tubu is a small, exclusive camp on a scenic island in the Okavango Delta. Shaded by a riverine forest, the camp enjoys a tree-house feel and occupies a picturesque ..
-
Little Vumbura Camp
Little Vumbura Camp
Little Vumbura, nestled on a private island within Botswana’s Okavango Delta, offers a secluded and intimate safari experience. Accessible only by boat, this luxurious ..
-
Miracle Rivers
Miracle Rivers
The best way to appreciate Africa is light of foot and in the thick of it. Letaka Safaris, run by some of the most experienced guides, will take you off the beaten track ..
-
Mombo Camp
Mombo Camp
This exceptional Wilderness Safaris property has a reputation for being among the finest safari camps in Africa, with elegant rooms set amidst the sublime natural beauty ..
-
Northern Highlights – northbound
Northern Highlights – northbound
The best way to appreciate Africa is light of foot and in the thick of it. Letaka Safaris, run by some of the most experienced guides, will take you off the beaten track ..
-
Pelo Camp
Pelo Camp
A rustic but comfortable camp set amongst the riverside trees of the Delta waterways, Pelo Camp offers a traditional safari camp experience. Guests here are surrounded by ..
-
Qorokwe Camp
Qorokwe Camp
Qorokwe Camp is a new addition to the Wilderness Safaris collection, adding to their already very impressive Southern Africa portfolio. With a prime waterside location in ..
-
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
Sanctuary’s super luxury Chief’s Camp offers a boutique and authentic accommodation in the middle of the awe-inspiring Okavango Delta. From this top-notch island ..
-
Sandibe Safari Lodge
Sandibe Safari Lodge
With a building worthy of any contemporary architectural magazine, Sandibe Safari Lodge is an idyllic haven for guests looking for style and comfort. Its luxurious ..
-
Seba Camp
Seba Camp
Meaning ‘Whisper’ in the local language, Wilderness Safaris Seba Camp is an intimate camp with just eight rooms, it’s own beach and a family-friendly atmosphere. ..
-
Shinde
Shinde
Shinde Camp, part of Ker & Downey Botswana’s renowned portfolio, offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Set on a private ..
-
Sitatunga Private Island Camp & Suite
Sitatunga Private Island Camp & Suite
Opening its doors in July 2023, Sitatunga Private Island Camp & Suite is the newest venture by Great Plains Conservation, acclaimed for their unmatched accommodations and ..
-
Skybeds
Skybeds
Skybeds calls out to those who love the idea of sleeping under the clear, starlit African skies. Deep within the Khwai Private Reserve, it serves as a rustic outpost ..
-
Tubu Tree
Tubu Tree
Tubu Tree is an intimate, traditional-style camp raised on wooden decks on a small island amid the floodplains. Tubu has a homely, tree-house feel and with its location ..
-
Tuludi Camp
Tuludi Camp
Whether you're a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor to the Delta, Tuludi Camp offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of ..
-
Vumbura Plains
Vumbura Plains
Vumbura Plains is a beautiful camp with outstanding delta views. The property is one of only three premier camps in Botswana and one of Wilderness Safari’s most ..
What People Say
-
The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
-
We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
-
Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
-
Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
-
Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
-
Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
-
Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
-
We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
-
Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
