&Beyond Sandibe Safari Lodge

A great setting for seeing the wildlife of Botswana, Sandibe Safari Lodge, situated in the magnificent wetland wilderness of the southern Okavango Delta, borders the famous, game-rich Moremi Game Reserve.

The lodge is built adjacent to traditional elephant trails and elephants still regularly wander through the camp. Sandibe Lodge is completely hidden among ancient trees, between the permanent water of the Santantadibe Channel and grassy plains, where elephant, tsessebe and buffalo graze, stalked by predators including lion, leopard and cheetah.

Within walking distance of the safari lodge are ancient baobabs, some still with climbing pegs used many years ago by Bayei (River Bushmen) in search of honey.

Sandibe's eight deluxe, thatched cottages are constructed in natural clearings beneath the cool forest canopy. Great care was taken not to disrupt the natural vegetation and to follow environmental construction principles. Bedroom walls incorporate large airy mesh screens that let in the refreshing Okavango breezes, and décor is natural, using leather, silk and rough-hewn wood. Each room has an elevated game-viewing deck overlooking the river channel, as well as a private, outdoor shower.

This luxurious but eco-conscious camp makes an extremely comfortable safari base. A small reed-enclosed swimming pool is ideal for an afternoon dip between game activities. The camp's dining room and lounge are stylishly furnished, and face the setting sun. Simple food is beautifully prepared, influenced by local African spices and ingredients, and may be served under the stars in the boma, on your private verandah, or as a sumptuous bush banquet. A separate deck enables the camp to serve private dinners, perfect for honeymooners or those who seek a more intimate experience. Bush picnics are also available on request. Many people say that Sandibe Safari Lodge has the best food in the Delta.

Wildlife

The game-rich habitat surrounding Sandibe Safari Lodge supports two resident prides of lion as well as African wild dog, and there have been sightings of the rare sitatunga antelope whose splayed, elongated toes allow it to run across the watery papyrus beds without sinking. Hippos live in the deeper channels and lagoons whilst herds of red lechwe favour the edges of the flood plains.

The five broad habitats attract an excellent range of birds including Wattled crane, Slatey egret, Dickinson’s kestrel, Violet-eared waxbill and the African fish-eagle. Waterbirds – storks, herons, kingfishers and brightly-coloured bee-eaters - flock to the marshes in October as the dry season reaches its peak.

Activities

Activities include day and night game drives in open 4WD safari vehicles, bush walks guided by a local San ranger, with the opportunity to learn traditional bush skills, as well as river cruises and fishing trips by eco-craft (a silent electric boat) and mokoro. With game-viewing and birding on both land and water all year round, Sandibe Safari Lodge is an ideal choice if you intend to stay at only one camp in the Okavango Delta.

Children

In line with CCAfrica's commitment to ecotourism and safeguarding the future, children are positively welcome at Sandibe Safari Lodge. For young children, there may be a restriction on the activities that can be safely undertaken; under 5s cannot participate in the regular game drives or mokoro activities.  Childminders can be booked at an additional charge. Children between 6-11 can usually join the regular game drives, but this is subject to the lodge manager’s discretion. An extra bed can be added so that children 11 years or under may share a room with their parents. Ring our consultants for advice on discounts and on the most suitable safari options for younger family members.