“After almost three decades, Chitabe remains as iconic as ever, drawing guests from around the world who become lifelong friends. After thrilling safari adventures, our newly enhanced guest suites offer the perfect retreat, designed to feel like your own personal sanctuary. While we’ve elevated the experience with more comfort and style, we’ve preserved the timeless magic that has made Chitabe so beloved. This evolution is a celebration of our legacy, with even more to offer our guests in the years to come”, said Helene Hamman, Wilderness Chitabe Co-owner.
Designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding wilderness, the newly rebuilt suites offer an exceptional balance of comfort and innovation, ideally suited to the seasonal temperature shifts of the Delta. More than doubling in size from the previous layout, each expansive room provides guests with even more space to relax and connect with the outdoors. High ceilings, large insect-proof mesh openings, and private shaded decks open onto sweeping views of this corner of the Delta, inviting guests to fully embrace the beauty of their surroundings.
The interiors, curated by renowned interior designer Lauren Hammond, reflect a refined yet organic aesthetic. The neutral palette is enhanced with warm accents, and the thoughtfully chosen furnishings foster a welcoming atmosphere. Rich textures of wood, leather and wool add warmth to the space, while aged brass and textured wallpaper in the bathrooms add elegance and a nod to safaris of a bygone era. Guests can unwind in the indoor lounge, a serene retreat within the tented suite, or step into the indulgent outdoor shower for a refreshing take on their daily ritual.
“The vision behind the redesign was to craft a space that blends timeless elegance with a profound connection to its natural surroundings”, explained Lauren. “Our aim was to create a sanctuary where guests can truly relax, while immersing themselves in the essence of the Delta. By seamlessly integrating the beauty of nature with refined luxury, we’ve curated an environment that feels both peaceful and grounded. The thoughtful combination of textures, natural light and unique details ensures that each suite allows guests to unwind and reconnect with the landscape in an authentic, meaningful way”.
In line with Wilderness’ commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, the newly rebuilt Chitabe suites incorporate innovative eco-friendly cooling systems inspired by ancient Egyptian and Persian techniques. Advanced evaporative air coolers – 90% more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioning – provide continuous fresh air circulation while maintaining an optimal temperature. Insulated canvas walls, ceilings and floors further enhance comfort, ensuring the suites remain cool and inviting, even during the peak of summer. The suites' structural design prioritises minimal environmental impact, featuring a steel framework that reduces ground disturbance and eliminates the need for concrete, enhancing the camp’s longevity and emphasising the company’s commitment to a light-footprint philosophy.
Every suite is further enriched by striking, panoramic wildlife photography from Chitabe co-owner Dave Hamman, a tribute to the Delta’s extraordinary biodiversity, and a reflection of the camp’s deep-rooted commitment to conservation. Thoughtful lighting accentuates the natural ambiance throughout the day, complementing the suite’s sweeping architectural lines, formed by elegant overhead stretch tents that provide shade while maintaining an airy openness.
Wellness has also been thoughtfully incorporated into the experience, with a newly introduced in-room spa menu allowing guests to indulge in treatments surrounded by the sounds of nature. These personalised therapies, whether enjoyed on the private deck or within the serene comfort of the room interior, align with the holistic wellness ethos of Wilderness, offering a restorative complement to the adventure of the safari experience.
With these enhancements, Wilderness Chitabe reaffirms its commitment to sustainable luxury, offering guests an immersive experience in one of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes. The redesigned suites embody the camp’s dedication to preserving the Okavango Delta’s natural beauty while blending comfort and environmental stewardship, making Chitabe an unforgettable destination for discerning travellers.
