Maxa: Our full report

Opening in March 2025, Maxa will have an enviable spot on the north-eastern fringe of the Okavango Delta.

Nestled within a grove of tall jackalberry or ebony trees, it will overlook the permanent Maxa Lagoon, a little-visited area that’s criss-crossed by a network of channels, so a good place for both land- and water-based activities.

Part of the fun for guests at Maxa will be the helicopter transfer from Shinde Airstrip, a short but thrilling opportunity to take in this stretch of the Okavango from the air. While we have not yet visited the new camp, this is what we understand guests will find.

Just five tented rooms, one of them – with two bedrooms - ideal for a family, will be set up on wooden decks looking across to the lagoon. Each tented room will have two full bathrooms: one indoors en suite, the second open to the elements; this is a camp that takes guest preferences seriously.

Sliding doors and huge picture windows will bring the outdoors in, with roll-down canvas blinds ensuring that the elements are kept at bay. Natural wood furnishings and neutral fabrics will enhance the light and airy feel.

The sense of openness will continue into the main area, where the curves of stretched canvas roofs blend into the setting. The lounge features comfortable, or you could take relaxation to another level in the sala, where a hammock and cushioned daybed await.

As you would expect from the location, activities at Maxa will be both land- and water-based: guided walking safaris, nature drives and leisurely excursions by mokoro (dug-out canoe). In addition, as the camp will be run in partnership with the Mmagamka Trust and members of the Bukakhwe tribe, you can also expect opportunities to gain an understanding of the local culture.

Our view

While the Expert Africa team has yet to visit Maxa, we are familiar with this area of the Delta. We also have many years’ experience of working with the owners, and are confident that their new camp will meet our high expectations.

Tracy Lederer

Country manager: Botswana

Geographics

Location: Okavango Delta Safari Reserves, Botswana
Ideal length of stay: We would recommend a stay of two or three nights at Maxa, perhaps combined with one or more of its sister camps in the Delta: Shinde, Shinde Footsteps, Kanana, Okuti, or for something completely different Dinaka
Directions: Travellers will fly into Shinde Airstrip, taking about 25 minutes from Maun. From here it will be a short helicopter transfer to Maxa.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board & Activities
Food quality: Meals at Maxa are likely to meet the same standard as at its sister camps – with the added feature of a wood-fired oven in a disused termite mound.
Dining style: Individual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining