Northern Botswana
Selinda Explorer Camp
Selinda Explorers Camp is poised in a remote, treasured location on the famous Selinda Spillway, under canopies of jackelberry and mangosteen trees. The lifeline of the Selinda Reserve, the Selinda Spillway is a crucial gathering point for the wildlife of this pristine 320,000-acre Reserve.
The Selinda Reserve is centred on the famous (seasonal) Selinda Spillway, which connects the Okavango Delta in the south with the Linyanti systems in the east. In years of abundant water, It flows into the Zibadianja lagoon, then through the Savute channel and eventually ends at the Savute marsh.
In keeping with its wild location (about 45 minutes’ game drive northwest of Selinda airstrip) the camp is ecologically sensitive with 100% solar power, grey water treatment, bore-hole water for drinking, and activities that concentrate on getting back to nature. Guided walking and day and night game drives are available for exploring the eastern reaches of the Selinda Reserve where there is an extensive network of tracks. It is a wildlife hot spot, with huge herds of elephant and buffalo, and lion, wild dog, sable and roan antelope all frequently spotted. On safari it is possible to see a tremendous diversity of species, with particular emphasis on the smaller things only seen on foot.
Activities are focused on game drives and walks. During periods of high water levels, water activities may be possible but not guaranteed.
Facilities
This classic camp, consisting of four custom-designed tents, transports guests back to authentic safaris, but with a modern twist and hospitality. Each of the four walk-in tents is expansive; however, in keeping with a traditional safari, the en-suite flush loo and shower are attached and enclosed, but under the stars. Hot and cold water is provided by jug on demand. The double copper vanities and dressing area make for spacious accommodation. Stylishly decorated with campaign-style furniture, decanters of cognac, Persian rugs brass hipbaths and hammocks also adorn each varandah: the entire décor pays homage to safaris of old.
Local Wildlife
Large numbers of elephant are seen here throughout the year plus healthy populations of both sable and roan antelope, giraffe, baboon, black-backed jackal, hippo, honey badger, reedbuck and many predators including lion, leopard, wild dog and occasionally cheetah.
Optional Activities
Walking safaris, game drives, boat-based activities (when water levels permit) all included on a shared basis.
Jonathan Morris
Area Specialist
Make the most of the walking safaris here, it really is their forte. After a long day walking in the bush, why not ask for your bath to be made up outside your tent. A soothing soak in hot water, a cold drink and a million stars – the perfect end to a thrilling day on safari.
If you have any questions regarding our Botswana tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
On behalf of my wife and myself, I would like to thank all at Reef and Rainforest for arranging so superbly yet another exceptional wildlife experience. As you are aware our ‘expeditions’ tend to be species led and this year’s brief was to observe and photograph the ‘Three Big Cats of Africa’ in a truly wild setting (i.e. no fences). Your recommended destination, Botswana, did not let us down, in fact the whole trip proved an outstanding success in all aspects.
We stayed in three camps (three nights in each) across the Okavango Delta and surrounding area, each provided a different environment which ensured our aims were met. Each camp was run to a very high standard, was extremely comfortable and provided excellent meals. The quality of guiding and tracking in all our camps was of the highest standard. As Botswana manages its natural resources so well all the camps were small (no more than 18 guests) ensuring a very intimate safari experience in pristine wild African habitat.
I am delighted to report our big cat objectives were realised. All observations were lengthy and offered excellent photographic opportunities. However, unexpectedly, the highlight of our spectacular trip turned out to be sightings of two separate packs of African Painted Dogs. We visited two dens, the first had a very healthy number of adult dogs, approximately fifteen and eighteen pups. The second had seven adult dogs and sixteen pups. At Lebala we had the privilege of spending a prolonged period of time following the pack of dogs as they hunted, an experience we will never forget.
When one also considers the significant mammal and bird species we observed, Botswana is truly a must visit destination for the wildlife enthusiast. Incidentally we also observed three serval and two African wild cats. We also thoroughly enjoyed our few days at Victoria Falls, possibly the most spectacular waterfall in the world, the hotel in Zimbabwe was excellent. Viewing the falls from the Zambian side and also the helicopter flight are both well worth doing.
This was our third consecutive trip with Reef and Rainforest, and I would be very surprised if there is not a fourth being planned very soon. Thank you all once again.