Embarking on a journey to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, my wife and I sought an authentic safari experience that combined adventure with comfort. Our destination: the Okavango Explorers Camp, operated by Great Plains Conservation. This camp promised an intimate connection with nature, and it delivered beyond our expectations.
A Warm Welcome in the African Bush
From the moment we arrived at Okavango Explorers Camp, we were treated like honored guests—not just visitors. The level of hospitality we experienced wasn’t just professional; it was heartfelt. As our Land Rover rolled up to the camp, a small team of smiling staff greeted us with cold eucalyptus-scented towels to freshen up from the dusty drive, and a chilled welcome drink in hand. After traveling thousands of miles to the heart of Botswana’s wilderness, this first impression set the tone for the rest of the trip: attention to detail and genuine care.
What stood out most to me was how the team already knew our names, our preferences, and even small notes about our dietary needs or drink favorites. Within minutes, we were checked in and gently guided to the central camp area, where a stunning fire pit overlooked the quiet bend of the river—a place where elephants might roam by at sunset or hippos might grunt in the distance. It quickly became our go-to spot for morning coffee, evening drinks, and even just quiet reflection.
At any given time of day, refreshments were available—cold water, fine South African wines, gin & tonics, whiskey, or even freshly brewed herbal teas. And it wasn’t just about availability; it was about presentation. Drinks were served on trays with linen napkins and chilled glasses, even in the middle of the bush. The staff anticipated needs before we had to ask, often offering a drink or snack right as we began thinking about one.
Our bags were whisked away to our tent before we had time to ask, and we were encouraged to settle in, explore the camp, or simply relax while our itinerary and expectations were reviewed casually, not in a rush. The sense of peace and being fully taken care of was immediate.
You don’t always expect this level of hospitality in a remote setting like this—but Great Plains doesn’t cut corners. Every member of the team, from the kitchen staff to the safari guides, treated us like family. They knew when to offer assistance and when to leave us space to absorb the moment. It felt refined and seamless, but never stiff—as if we were VIP guests in someone’s home, not just another guest in a luxury camp.
If you’ve ever wondered what true five-star hospitality in the middle of the African bush feels like, Okavango Explorers Camp delivers it on every level—warm, human, and unforgettable.
Okavango Delta Safari Experience
Each day at Okavango Explorers Camp began with a small but powerful gesture of hospitality—fresh coffee or tea, delivered directly to our tent at 5:30 a.m., accompanied by a gentle greeting and a smile. There’s something unforgettable about sitting on your canvas porch, sipping a warm drink as the first light cracks over the African horizon, the sounds of distant birds and hippos setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
By 6 a.m., we were in the custom-designed Land Rover, heading into the wild. These trucks were built for comfort and performance—open air, high seats, blankets, and binoculars for each guest. It’s a ride designed to make you feel part of the landscape, not just a viewer of it.
Our guide, AB, alongside trainee Mika, was nothing short of incredible. AB’s knowledge was endless—he could look at a single hoofprint and tell you not only what animal made it, but when it passed, which direction it was headed, and whether it was alone or with others. Every bird call, rustling in the grass, or scent in the air meant something to him, and he brought that ancient bush wisdom to life for us on every drive. Whether it was spotting a lion in the shade, tracking wild dogs through the plains, or waiting quietly as a herd of elephants passed just feet from the vehicle, AB made sure each moment was filled with awe and understanding.
One of the biggest surprises of our safari experience? The mid-morning bush breakfasts. After a couple of hours exploring and tracking wildlife, we’d pull into a scenic clearing—sometimes under a giant baobab, other times by a watering hole—and the team would transform the space into a luxury outdoor café. White linens, real silverware, ceramic dishes, and a full spread: freshly scrambled eggs, seasonal fruits, creamy yogurt with granola, toast, jams, and hot coffee poured into glass mugs, all served in the middle of nowhere. These weren’t just meals—they were experiences.
By around noon, we returned to camp, greeted once again with chilled towels and refreshments. Lunches were always gourmet—colorful, flavorful, and plated like something from a five-star restaurant, but with a view of the river and passing wildlife that made it completely surreal. We loved the slow pace of the afternoon that followed. You could grab a cold drink and relax in the lounge, take a power nap in your tent with the canvas flaps open to the breeze, or even hop online thanks to private Starlink internet at each tent. For me, those hours were a perfect mix of reflection, gratitude, and the rare opportunity to enjoy total peace.
At 4 p.m., high tea was served—light finger foods, sweet and savory bites, and a fresh round of teas and coffees to energize for the evening safari. By 4:30, we were back in the truck with fresh enthusiasm, ready for the golden-hour adventure.
These evening drives were a different kind of magic. The lighting turned golden, the animals became more active, and the air cooled just enough to refresh your senses. Sundowners, or sunset drink breaks, were another highlight—watching the African sun melt into the horizon with a gin and tonic or Amarula in hand, surrounded by wild beauty, is something I’ll remember forever.
Perhaps one of the most special elements was the flexibility of the schedule. If we found ourselves watching a pride of lions on the move, no one was looking at a watch. If a leopard appeared as the sun dipped low, we stayed. The focus was always on the experience, not the clock—and that made every sighting feel timeless.
From sunrise coffee to nightfall lanterns, every moment of the day was thoughtfully crafted for both adventure and deep connection with the land.
Gourmet Diner & Evenings Under the Stars
Dinner at Okavango Explorers Camp was nothing short of magical. As the sun set over the river, lantern-lit paths glowed softly through the bush, leading the way to the open-air dining area. Whether you preferred to join other guests in a communal setting or enjoy a more intimate dinner alone with your travel partner, the staff was eager to tailor the experience to your desires.
One thing that impressed us most was the personalized attention to dietary preferences. Long before we arrived, the camp had asked for our dietary restrictions and preferences—and they delivered. Whether someone required kosher meals, had a gluten allergy, followed a plant-based or low-sugar diet, or just had personal taste preferences, the kitchen staff prepared every dish with precision and care. I even heard from another guest that they had requested something not on the menu—grilled fish with a side of local vegetables—and the chef whipped it up without hesitation.
Each night featured a freshly designed gourmet menu, paired with South African wines or handcrafted cocktails if you wished. It felt surreal eating world-class meals in the heart of the African wilderness, hearing the distant calls of wildlife under a sky glittering with stars.
Whether it was the slow-roasted lamb with mint chutney, the homemade butternut squash soup, or the chocolate torte with fresh cream, every meal was thoughtfully curated and served with a level of hospitality you would expect at a five-star resort—yet we were out in the bush. It was one of those experiences where luxury meets raw nature, and both sides are elevated by the contrast.
After dessert, we’d often sit by the fire, sharing stories with fellow guests or simply soaking in the atmosphere, overwhelmed with gratitude for the beauty around us. It wasn’t just dinner—it was a memory we’ll never forget.
Unique Activities and Accommodations
One afternoon, we embarked on a guided canoe trip along the river, an adventure that offered a different perspective of the landscape. Safety measures, including a lead guide and a rifle for precaution, ensured a secure and enjoyable experience.
Our tented accommodations combined rustic charm with modern comforts. The open-air design allowed us to fall asleep to the sounds of the wild and wake up to the melodies of birdsong. Luxurious bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities provided a comfortable retreat after each day’s adventures.
Great Plains Safari Camps and Collections
Great Plains Conservation manages a portfolio of 18 safari camps, categorized into two main collections:
Réserve-Collection: These camps epitomize luxury and exclusivity, offering personalized experiences in some of Africa’s most pristine wildlife areas. Each camp is a member of Relais & Châteaux, ensuring the highest standards of service and comfort. Notable camps include Zarafa Camp, Duba Plains Camp, and Tembo Plains Camp.
Explorer-Collection: Designed for adventurous travelers, these camps provide immersive safari experiences with a focus on authenticity and connection to nature. They offer comfortable accommodations with a rustic charm, such as the Okavango Explorers Camp and Mara Expedition Camp.
Commitment to Conservation
Beyond offering exceptional safari experiences, Great Plains Conservation is deeply committed to environmental stewardship. Through the Great Plains Foundation, the organization implements innovative conservation initiatives, community development projects, and sustainable tourism practices aimed at protecting Africa’s wild places and wildlife.
Conclusion
Okavango Explorers Camp offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and authentic safari experiences. The attentive staff, exquisite dining, expert guides, and immersive activities make it a standout destination for those seeking a memorable African adventure. For travelers looking to explore Botswana’s rich biodiversity while enjoying top-tier accommodations, this camp is an exceptional choice.
To read more on this African adventure, visit the overall Blog of the whole African experience of this trip including both other stops from Cape Town to Sitatuga Private Island.
