Undisruptive nature

Located on the eastern tip of the Okavango Delta’s alluvial fan and superbly positioned on the edge of the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, is the luxury safari lodge, Belmond Khwai River Lodge. The camp spreads out under the cover of tall trees just at the edge of a forest, with uninterrupted views over the Khwai River floodplains of Moremi Reserve. Listen to the calls of the Fish Eagle as you lazily swing in your hammock, watch elephants wading through the water with a cocktail in hand, or have dinner under a deep black sky, sprinkled with a million stars. The Belmond Khwai River Lodge is the place to recharge. Set in an idyllic location, you will find all the pampering you need within hand reach. A comfortable bed, home cooked meals, richly flowing African wines, abundant wildlife, stunning scenery – but the real gem of the Belmond Khwai River Lodge is the warm staff. Be welcomed by hosts Baloo and Tessa and their heart-warming greetings – it is time to let genuine hospitality embrace you.

There are 14 canvas and thatched tents – although ‘tent’ is an understatement; expect a luxurious suite with canvas walls - housed on raised wooden platforms. One suite comes with an indoor shower, outdoor bath (and shower) plus a heated private plunge pool, providing an intimate safari experience – perfect for a romantic honeymoon. The tent interiors feel light and modern, and include en-suite facilities with double vanity, shower and separate toilet, king-size beds complete with mosquito netting. You will also find air-conditioning in your suite (for those warm siesta hours), electric heaters (because there are chilly nights too), hairdryers, private minibar and tea or coffee facilities. Every tent boasts its own viewing deck, with comfortable chairs to nestle into, or doze off in the hammock. If you wake up by the sound of hippos, grab your (complimentary) high quality Zeiss binoculars to take a closer look. Walk over the paved walkways to the communal areas located at the centre of camp. These include a homely lounge and dining area with broad vistas over the delta, an observation deck overlooking the Khwai River (with a high powered telescope for excellent animal spotting), a boma for traditional African meals, and an elevated deck with plenty of quiet reading nooks. The impressive swimming pool measures 20 meters. The lounge chairs provide the perfect spot to relax while gazing at the surrounding floodplains. Talking about relaxing: book a personal spa treatment in your room to really unwind. And for those who want to share their adventures on the spot, there is Internet access.

Activities at Belmond Khwai River Lodge

Not only is the accommodation five stars, but the activities will also make this stay memorable. Guides Richard, Moses or Tsile – just to name a few – are excellent spotters and trackers and will share all their knowledge with you. You will be surprised how much there is to learn about Botswana wildlife on a safari day. Wake up to fresh coffee or tea in the early morning before venturing out when animals are most active. Hop in the safari vehicle, it is time for your first magical game drive! And here at Belmond Khwai River Lodge, they will take their time. Is a lion family crossing the river? The guides will follow it as long as possible. This game reserve is also a great place to spot leopards, buffalos, beautiful birds (including Spoonbills, Hornbills and the colourful Lilac-breasted Rollers), wild dogs and wildebeests. Crocodiles, bathing elephants and hippos are often seen during a river cruise. When returning to camp, hungry bellies are treated to an extensive brunch. For those who like to get a little more active, there is the option to go on a guided safari walk before the night drive. And to deepen your connection to this land, this lodge also offers visits to the nearby village - a great way to complete your stay and experience the local culture. Here, luxury not only comes in spa treatments or soft sheets, but also in rich memories.

Tripadvisor comments Belmond Lodge

Both the lodge area and the individual units were superb. The staff is highly competent and very friendly. It is hard to imagine a better experience. The guides made every game drive a top-notch experience.

lattaboy314 from Greenville, South Carolina

This was our first time in Botswana and I can't tell you enough of the wonderful experience we had at Khwai. All throughout the vacation we felt stress free. The staff, the food, the service, all the different touches were amazing. Everything was fabulous! Excellent all around.

Maryel0617 from Woodridge, New Jersey