Overlooking a floodplain on the fringe of the Okavango Delta, Little Machaba is ideally located in the famous Khwai Concession, a privately managed conservation area adjoining the Moremi Game Reserve. It’s a beguiling landscape of wetlands and forest punctuated by large grassy plains – the perfect habitat for all of Botswana’s signature wildlife like big herds of elephant and buffalo, big cats, and wild dogs. The area teems with animals and birds all year round.

The smaller sister camp to Machaba Main Camp located a discreet distance away, Little Machaba has been designed for a more intimate experience. There are only four tented suites modeled in a grand yesteryear style, but the camp also has a pool, spa treatments, and even Wi-Fi access. Morning and afternoon game drives with expert local guides are the main activities at Little Machaba, but you can also sit back on a mokoro (traditional canoe) and explore twisting waterways when the Okavango floods. And thanks to its private setting, the camp can offer guided bush walks and after-dinner game drives with a spotlight.

Naturally exclusive and with highly rated service, it is a great camp for honeymooners and couples but also a camp that welcomes families too. Two of the four tents have been designed to accommodate families and age-appropriate activities can be arranged with your guides. Children must be over twelve years old to stay at Little Machaba unless the whole camp is privately booked.

Highlights

• Private setting in a legendary game viewing area
• Great reputation for elephants, buffalo, and big cats
• Located in a stronghold for African wild dog
• Day and night game drives, guided walks, and mokoro safaris (in flood season)
• Swimming pool and in-suite spa treatments
• Watch wildlife from the comfort of your private veranda

Activities

• DAY TOURS
• BIRD WATCHING
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS
• GUIDED WALKS
• NIGHT DRIVES

Situated in the game-rich Khwai Concession, this is the intimate and classically modern version of the original 1950’s safari camp. Little Machaba delivers an experience like no other, packed with great game viewing, comfort, and plenty of safari activities on land and water (seasonal).

Rooms

Luxury Tent

There are only four tented suites at Little Machaba, two have been designed with couples in mind while the other two accommodate families with children. Set on raised platforms, they enjoy broad views over a floodplain that is usually studded with wildlife. Step inside and you have the comfort and style of a bygone safari era as well as an adjoining bathroom with a flush toilet and walk-in shower. Three of the suites also have an outside shower whereas the camp’s honeymoon suite boasts an outside bathtub with a grand – though private – view.

Facilities

The main lodge at Little Machaba sits on a raised platform and commands sweeping views over an Okavango Delta floodplain. The lounge, bar, and dining area sit under canvas – there is also a reference library to browse – while outside you will find a large viewing deck and a plunge pool complete with sun loungers. The camp runs on solar power for its lighting and battery recharging facilities (there is a generator for backup) and even has Wi-Fi internet access in the main lodge.

Little Machaba also offers spa treatments that are performed in the privacy of your suite. There are plenty of pleasing details too: a complimentary laundry service, a thick blanket around your shoulders, and coals placed under your chair in winter.

Dining

The day begins early with a light breakfast served at the main camp before your morning activity. On return to camp, you have a hearty brunch – a choice of hot and cold dishes with salads and topped off with fruit and cheeses. There is afternoon tea and cake to energize you after a midday siesta, and you can look forward to a candlelit three-course dinner on your return to camp in the evening.

Meals are served at the main lodge, inside or outside depending on the weather, and at a communal table. Bush breakfasts and lunches as well as in-room dining are available on request.