Wilderness Chitabe, located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, has reopened following a transformative rebuild, reaffirming its status as one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Bordering Moremi Game Reserve, the Chitabe concession is defined by a diverse mix of floodplains, marshlands, woodlands, and grasslands. This unique convergence of habitats supports an abundance of wildlife, creating a year-round haven for predators and prey alike. As a result, guests can expect exceptional game-viewing opportunities in one of the most ecologically rich areas in the region.
Prides of lions, packs of wild dogs, and a remarkable population of cheetahs thrive in the plains, while an impressive density of leopards – more than 50 recorded individuals – makes Chitabe one of the best places in Botswana to view these elusive big cats. Elephant, buffalo, zebra and giraffe roam freely alongside impala, tsessebe, and kudu, ensuring breathtaking wildlife encounters on every game drive. The area is also a haven for birding enthusiasts, with species such as Pel’s fishing owl, wattled crane, slaty egret and African hawk-eagle regularly spotted.
Beyond its exceptional wildlife, Chitabe is deeply committed to conservation and community impact, actively supporting research, habitat restoration and local initiatives. The camp funds aerial wildlife surveys for northern Botswana and has partnered with the University of the Witwatersrand on a baseline groundwater study to enhance long-term ecosystem health. Chitabe plays a critical role in predator conservation, backing the Botswana Wild Dog Research Project since 1997 and contributing to the world’s most comprehensive database on African wild dogs. Additional conservation efforts include annual donations to Wild Entrust Africa, supporting leopard and wild dog research, as well as replanting indigenous trees through an on-site nursery to mitigate elephant damage and restore the natural habitat. Chitabe’s impact extends to the local community, supporting a team of 85 staff members through employment, profit-sharing initiatives and financial assistance for their children’s education, including school fees, uniforms and stationery. The camp also welcomes staff families annually for a special visit. Further contributions include support for organisations such as the Maun Animal Welfare Society’s vaccination campaigns, and the Shorobe community.
Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, the newly rebuilt camp offers an enhanced guest experience while prioritising sustainability. The spacious guest suites have been reimagined for comfort and efficiency, featuring insulated canvas walls and roofs that regulate temperature while maintaining Chitabe’s signature tented safari experience. An advanced evaporative cooling system in the rooms provides energy-efficient climate control, reducing environmental impact while ensuring a comfortable stay. Interiors have been carefully curated, with organic materials – including wood, leather, and wool – complemented by prints of panoramic wildlife images captured by co-owner Dave Hamman.
Guests are immersed in the Okavango Delta’s untamed beauty through a range of expertly guided activities designed to showcase the region’s biodiversity. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal the dynamic wildlife at sunrise and sunset, while night drives with spotlights provide a rare opportunity to observe nocturnal species. Guided nature walks, available seasonally, offer an intimate exploration of the Delta on foot, led by expert trackers whose deep understanding of the land enhances every encounter. Chitabe’s location in an Important Birding and Biodiversity Area (IBA) makes it a sought-after destination for birdwatchers, with the opportunity to spot some of Africa’s rarest species in their natural habitat. Guests can also gain insight into Chitabe’s commitment to sustainability with a behind-the-scenes tour of the camp’s solar-powered operations and other eco-friendly initiatives, reinforcing Wilderness’ broader mission of conservation tourism. For a truly unforgettable perspective, scenic helicopter flights provide aerial views of this iconic landscape, revealing the intricate waterways and lush terrain that define the Okavango Delta.
With its extraordinary wildlife and unwavering commitment to conservation, Wilderness Chitabe remains one of Botswana’s most rewarding safari destinations. The recent rebuild ensures that the camp continues to set the standard for sustainable luxury in the Okavango Delta, offering an experience that is not only unforgettable but also deeply impactful.
