OKAVANGO PANHANDLE
The tar road that connects all these places needs a little TLC, but you can drive it in a 4x2. The Panhandle is the best place to get a taste of the Okavango at budget rates, although there are also more luxurious options.
65 Xaro Lodge
This luxury tented lodge just south of Shakawe is a birder’s dream. Rates start at US$360 (R6228) for a twin-sleeper tent, with breakfast and dinner. You’re transferred to the lodge by boat.
✆ 00267 72 807 476
66 Shakawe River Lodge
Close to Shakawe, this popular lodge has recently been spruced up. The campsite has 10 stands. There are 10 chalets in riverine forest. 2022 rates: chalet P950 (R1273) per person B&B. Camping P200 (R268) per adult; P100 (R134) per child under 12. They offer boat cruises from P200 (R268) per hour for a minimum of three people.
GPS: S18.43384 E21.90567
✆ 00267 75 373 920
67 Askiesbos
This awesome place is on the farm Klipsop just north of Shakawe River Lodge. They have a campsite, two forest tents on decks, and three river tents on decks. Camping P150 (R201) per person; safari tents from P1 000 (R1 340) for two people sharing. Meals are available at extra cost. A houseboat, Delta Belle, can be booked through them. It costs P14500 (R19430) per day for the whole boat (up to 10 people) on a self-catering basis, or P14500 (R19430) plus P550 (R737) per person per day, all inclusive. They offer boat cruises, fishing, day trips to Tsodilo Hills and a variety of cultural experiences in the district, involving and supporting the local community.
GPS: S18.42941 E21.89424
✆ 00267 73 505 170
✆ 00267 73 505 193 (Hettie)
68 Drotsky’s Cabins
This classic spot is also near Shakawe and popular with birders and anglers. Chalet accommodation P1985 (R2660) per night for two people. Meals available at extra cost. Camping P255 (R342) per adult; half-price for children under 12. Contact them directly for ZAR rates.
GPS: S18.41522 E21.88144
✆ 00267 683 0226 (Piet)
69 Nxamaseri Island Lodge
This luxury lodge is close to Ncamasere. They’re big on fishing, especially fly-fishing. Contact them directly for rates.
GPS: S18.63548 E22.04674 (turn-off from the A35)
✆ 00267 680 1494
70 Swamp Stop
A lekker place! There are riverfront campsites under the trees with water, power and braai facilities. It costs P178 (R239) per adult; half-price for children under 12. At night your neighbours might be hippos. You’re not in Sandton any more!
En suite, air-conditioned room P1 050 (R1 407) per night for two people. Riverfront en suite tent P750 (R1 005) per night for two. Rates exclude VAT and government levy.
There’s a restaurant with a viewing deck above, which is a great spot to have breakfast and watch the river. There’s also a lounge area and there are swimming pools. Swamp Stop offers boat rides and fishing outings.
GPS: S18.74633 E22.197934
✆ 00267 72 610 071
Instagram: @swampstop
71 Nguma Island Lodge
Nguma Island Lodge is north of the village Etsha 13 on the banks of Guma Lagoon. Camping P228 (R306) per person. Meru tents from P1765 (R2365) per person, including breakfast and dinner (rate valid for November and December 2022; includes VAT and bed levies).
GPS: S18.95396 E22.37329
✆ 00267 73 560 120
72 Guma Lagoon Camp
Turn off the A35 at Etsha 13 and follow the signs to Guma Lagoon Camp. During flood season you’ll need a 4x4 for the final few kilometres. If you’re driving a 4x2, you can park your vehicle safely near Etsha 13 and someone from Guma Lagoon Camp will come and pick you up.
The camp has 16 safari tents with views of the water. Unit for two: P1 323 (R1 773) per night. Family unit
