Set on a remote island and accessible only by air, Jao Camp is situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta and ensures a private and secluded experience in a classic African wilderness. Built on several levels and decorated with local carvings and artwork, Jao Camp also features what is considered one of the best spas in Botswana and breathtaking scenery.

Head off in open 4x4 vehicles in search of the area's abundant wildlife: there is a wide range of savannah species, wetland specialists - like the endangered sitatunga antelope -  and predators such as lion, leopard, and hyena, as well as excellent birding. Set out in the evening for a night drive to spot the area's more elusive nocturnal creatures, explore the Delta's never-ending waterways on a guided mokoro (dug-out canoe), or explore nearby islands on foot, one of the best ways to soak up the Okavango Delta's astounding natural beauty from another angle.

Young guests are looked after as part of the Bush Buddy program that is tailored to appeal to pre-teens as as well teenagers with a range of age-appropriate safari activities.

Highlights

• Remote island setting in a private concession
• Fantastic game sightings, including rare sitatunga antelopes
• Spacious & luxurious safari suites, individually decorated
• Year-round water-based game activities
• One of Botswana's best spas
• Exceptional predator action
• Bush Buddy program for children

Activities

• BIRD WATCHING
• BOAT EXCURSIONS
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• MOKORO TRAILS
• NIGHT DRIVES
• FISHING
• PICNICS
• BUSH DINING
• FULL-DAY SAFARIS
• PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS
• SPECIALIST GUIDES
• STAR GAZING
• SUNSET CRUISES
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS

Fantastic option for couples looking for a luxury bush stay, offering both land and water activities. The lodge has surprising creature comforts in the bush which includes spa treatments, a wine cellar, and an entertainment room.

Rooms

Standard Twin Tent

There are nine thatched tented rooms at Jao Camp, each raised on stilts and built under a canopy of trees.

Each spacious and luxurious suite includes sleeping and sitting areas that flow through retractable glass doors onto a private deck.

The deck itself extends to a private sala and day bed, ideal for gazing out over the beautiful scenery and spotting wildlife. The en suite bathroom includes a vanity, flush toilet, a large bathtub, and both indoor and outdoor showers.

Facilities

Built on two levels, the central lodge has a tranquil sitting area, library, and well-stocked safari shop on the ground floor that leads onto an extensive deck arranged around the firepit. An elaborate wooden staircase leads to the upper deck that features another lounge, a bar, and a dining area, all with endless vistas of the surrounding wetlands.

Choose from two refreshing plunge pools, connected to the main area by wooden walkways, and be sure to indulge in a massage treatment at the well-equipped spa, discreetly hidden among shady trees. There is a small gym for active guests.

The Bush Buddy program assigns a specially trained mentor to children aged six to 17. Not only do they receive welcome backpacks on arrival but they are also entertained and educated with a host of activities like Bushman Walks, tracking lessons, and antlion trapping.

Dining

A light breakfast, gourmet brunch, and delicious afternoon tea are served in the elevated dining room, surrounded by artwork and impressive views over the Okavango Delta. Bush breakfasts and picnics often await you deep in the wilderness.

Dinners are usually served under starry skies in the traditional boma where you can swap stories with other guests and guides over your 3-course meal. You may also choose to dine at your table in the boma, or for an intimate and romantic dining experience, you may want to dine alfresco on your tent's private deck.