Location
Khwai Private Wildlife Reserve, Botswana

This eco-friendly camp at the edge of Botswana’s massive private Khwai wildlife reserve is a complete rebuild of a longtime favorite bush camp. Part of a community-based partnership with a keen sensitivity for the environment and local culture, the camp’s 12 raised log and canvas tents have uninterrupted views of a lagoon connected to two rivers, which is regularly frequented by thirsty wildlife. A resident pod of about 30 hippos provides steady entertainment while elephant, buffalo and herds of plains game come in and out to drink. 

Stylish contemporary finishes in the tents include canopy beds, hardwood floors and crisp bedding. Each tent has its own deck, ceiling fan and en suite bathroom with flush toilet and private indoor and outdoor showers to rinse away the dust. A swimming pool, lounge and outdoor seating area share uninterrupted views of the vast plains and star-filled sky. Take game drives and walking safaris with indigenous guides into the Khwai Reserve, looking for lion, leopard, wild dog, and of course the eponymous sable antelope, among many other species. A trip down the Khwai River by traditional mokoro, a poled canoe, provides a chance to converse and learn about the community from local polers. Night drives may offer glimpses of leopard, porcupine and feisty honey badger.