Tsessebe Safari: Day-by-day

Rising above the reeds on the edge of the peaceful Xakanaxa Lagoon, Okuti is a triumph of architectural design. Inside, it's almost Tardis-like in its use of space: the walls are curved, the ceilings softly vaulted, the whole aura light, airy and spacious. Tree-shaded wooden walkways wind around the site, with spurs drawing you in to your own private chalet where there's no shortage of creature comforts.

Unwind with a drink on your small balcony, or in the comfort of your own armchair; embrace the outdoors in your outdoor shower; and fall asleep to the music of tiny painted reed frogs.

The hub of Okuti combines comfort with practicality. Along with books aplenty, there's a help-yourself bar, a curio shop stocked with handmade baskets, and a cooling pool set up like a rural kraal. Spend your days (with just four guests to a vehicle) exploring Moremi Game Reserve, where elephant, giraffe, zebra, lion and more seem to jostle for space – and the rhinos are back!

"I loved this camp"

FRfromAustralia

Arrived 1 Jun 2023, 2 nights

Or take to the lagoon by motorboat and watch as the setting sun daubs the water in shades of pink. Then, come the evening, settle down to a convivial three-course meal, impeccably served by friendly and approachable staff. See our full report on Okuti

Forests, floodplains and permanent channels set the scene at Kanana for some memorable activities – especially on water. It's a heady mix, enhanced by an unfussy yet comfortable camp with good food, very good guiding, and the little things that can make a stay extra special.

Homemade biscuits in your chalet; a help-yourself drinks sideboard; a whisky decanter that appears as if by magic each evening.

A broader canvas introduces exclusive access by boat along papyrus-lined channels to an impressive heronry; beloved of pink-backed pelicans, ibises and uncountable storks and egrets, it undoubtedly has the “wow” factor.

So, too, does spending a night under the dazzling African sky on Kanana’s sleep-out deck, with a log fire lit on a termite mound and extensive views over the surrounding floodplain.

Back in camp, canvas-and-wood chalets are deceptively attractive, their polished hardwood floors set with delicately woven reed mats; their huge beds enveloped by mosquito netting; their decks taking in the view.

"Good sightings.. Swimming pool & area excellent for relaxing.."

Mr & Mrs IfromLongton

Arrived 3 Oct 2022, 3 nights

Return from seeking out the Okavango’s wildlife on land or on water to cool off in the free-form pool or to cosy up in the lounge with a book. Then gather round the firepit – with half an eye on the animals grazing in front – to swap stories before a convivial dinner. See our full report on Kanana

From the moment you arrive at Shinde, just minutes from the bush airstrip, it's clear you're in good hands. The team here is one of the most long-standing in the Delta, united in their welcoming approach and their understanding of the environment.

And it's an intrinsically beautiful environment: the tree-shaded camp looking out over open plains, backed by a mosaic of channels. As the dry season progresses, wildlife – both predators and prey – is drawn to the plains, creating a near-Arcadian spectacle. Less visible are some of the aquatic species, though the lucky few may spot the sitatunga. And the birdlife in this part of the Delta is a must.

Exploration – in the hands of a team of experienced guides – is there for the asking, on game drives day and night, motorboat excursions, gentle mokoro trips or on foot. Unusually, options are limited only by your energy – so if you're up for three activities a day, go for it.

"staff exceptionally friendly & helpful... Our Guide (Noah) was outstanding..."

Mr & Mrs DfromE Sussex

Arrived 10 Nov 2022, 4 nights

Alternatively, settle back and watch from the comfort of your traditional tented chalet, or the multi-level structure that culminates in an open-sided dining room up in the trees. Or add a touch of hedonism and make for the pool – with a view, of course. See our full report on Shinde Camp