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 retreat, guests can enjoy the passing game from the comfort of the camp’s deck or head out to explore the predator-rich reserve.
Awarded: Silver
Location
The camp is situated in the Moremi Game Reserve on the famous Chief’s Island, the largest in the Okavango Delta. Lying within the private Mombo concession, this beautiful location is surrounded by trees and offers incredible views over the floodplains.
Rooms
10 large pavilions and suites are spacious and offer a soothing atmosphere, each decorated with natural hues, dark wooden flooring and walls and a large bed draped in mosquito netting. The interiors feature a private dining area and from the en suite bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows lead to an outdoor shower and tub. For more outdoor indulgence, the terrace offers a pool for absorbing views of the plains and surrounding wildlife. If your travelling with a group, the new Geoffrey Kent Suite sleeps up to six people and boasts a characterful interior with a kitchen, lounge, private decks and even your own vehicle, guide and personal chef.
Communal Areas
The main building compromises a reception, lounge and dining room all elegantly decorated to include leather sofas, wooden carvings and cane lamps sheltered under a high thatched roof. For sundowners, a campfire is surrounded by directors chairs and the deck comes complete with a pizza oven for laid-back dinners under the stars. The pool area looks out onto the Piajio floodplains with plenty of sunbeds and calico umbrellas.
Activities
Take morning or afternoon game drives with expert guides to explore the delta where lions, antelope, zebra and buffalo roam. Guests will also have the opportunity to see rare wild dogs which have been hunted to near extinction in most parts of Africa. Take a trip on a dugout canoe through the lagoons and streams of the Okavango or a scenic flight in a helicopter for a unique perspective of the landscape. The camp also offers spa treatments including body therapies, rituals and facials.
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, ..
-
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 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 is an island-based camp secluded in the Delta waterways, featuring cosy accommodation, scenic views and a range of safari options that will keep you ..
-
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 ..
-
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. ..
-
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.
