Zarafa Camp

Zafara Camp has four luxurious marquee-style tented suites. Raised on old railway sleeper decking for outstanding views, they are each 1000 square foot and include a large lounge area, an open layout bathroom and a comfortable bedroom. Access to the tents is through a traditional East-African Lamu door, with floor to ceiling roll-up doors allowing an abundance of natural light to fill the tent. Guests will enter into the lounge area, which is a lavish space, filled with traditional early-explorer items such as authentic rugs on polished wooden floors, wooden chests and leather furniture, creating a space which feels authentic and relaxing.

In the centre of the bedroom is the large, comfortable bed, swathed with mosquito netting and facing the decking with stunning vistas so guests can relax and watch the sunrise from the comfort of their own bed. Hidden behind is some hanging and shelving space are useful amenities such as soft bathrobes, an umbrella, insect repellent and a digital safe. With air-conditioning and a fan in the room, guests can tailor the temperature to their liking. In the open plan bathroom area copper is the theme, with copper basins, a large authentic mirror and a deep copper bath, perfect for guests wanting to unwind after a day spent exploring.

Also available to guests is a copper gas heater – for the winter months – to help keep the tent warm and cosy. Each tent comes complete with an expansive private decking for a more intimate stay. Cool off in your own private plunge pool whilst simultaneously keeping an eye out for passing elephants or freshen up by using your outdoor shower to really feel at one with nature.

The dining area is found in the main area of Zafara Camp, and is decorated in the same explorer theme as the guest tents. With an extensive decking area meals are usually served outside – weather permitting – and around a large communal dining table. Whether inside or outside, the dining area overlooks the floodplains of the Zibadianja Lagoon allowing guests to eat fresh, quality food with accompanying wine, whilst enjoying the magnificent views. Private dining can be arranged on guests private decking or in their tent, for a more intimate experience.

Because of the intimate nature of the camp, activities can be flexible. Day and night game drives are offered. Guests can safari around the area in a custom built Land Rover with a detachable canvas roof, looking out for lions, elephants, buffalo and zebra. This is a great way to see the animals at ease in their natural habitats. For a chance to see more of the area full day game drives can be arranged.

With an armed and trained guide, explore the Selinda Reserve on foot, exploring areas not reachable by vehicle. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to place yourself in the heart of the nature in Botswana and see the animals at eye level.

Catch-and-release fishing is available seasonally, with provided fishing equipment. While away an afternoon on the clear waters, seeing if you can catch one of the many local species of fish.

Guests can cruise along the lagoon on HMS Zibadianja, a large pontoon boat complete with comfortable sofas and a table and chairs. Brunch and sunset cruises are available giving guests the perfect opportunity to feel at peace on the water whilst looking out for hippos and elephant. Due to the combination of habitats there is a variety of birdlife with slaty egrets, coucal and African fish eagles all being very possible sightings.

A detailed pack of information can be provided to younger guests upon arrival with information about animal calls and tracking wildlife so they can be inspired and learn about the surrounding environment.

Great Plains Conservation seeks to “preserve, rescue and recover” communities, wildlife and landscapes in Africa. One of the ways they are doing this is through the Great Plains Student Conservation Camp by educating teachers and students in local communities  and in Great Plains camps about environmental conservation and why this is important. The Great Plains Academy has been launched, which tackles the lack of education by providing “personal and community enrichment opportunities for individuals in Northern Botswana.” The Conservation Grows program began in 2019 and “aims to restore indigenous tress to landscapes across Kenya, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.”

Great Plains Conservation contributes to the Rhinos Without Borders project and aims to translocate “100 rhinos from poaching hot zones in South Africa to safe havens in Botswana.” Guests are helping to support this as a “Conservation and Community Levy is added to each stay” as a contribution towards these projects.

Great Plains Conservation understands that employing people from local communities not only benefits the employee but also their wider family members. Having a job and an income reduces their need to rely on the land for survival so increases the protection of this land. A relatively new initiative is “Women Wildlife Monitors” which aims to employ and empower local women. Great Plains Conservation have also donated solar lanterns to community members and students so their homes can have a safe and sustainable light resource. Every Great Plains Camp has a shop where local beadwork and other products can be sold, to help support local craft groups.

Revenue is generated directly for the community through opportunities such as ‘The Life with Elephants’ tour which was designed by residents of the local village Eretsha and EcoExist which “offers travellers the opportunity to see life alongside wildlife in a remote Okavango Delta community.”

Zafara Camp is a member of the Pack for Purpose initiative which allows travellers to supply local communities with equipment and resources they may need for community projects.

During construction of Zafara Camp only recycled hardwood and canvas were used, and all the camp’s electricity is supplied by a solar farm. The vegetable waste is converted into usable cooking gas by a bio-gas system.