We’re not sure if the local hyena population was consulted about the name change. But following a recent refurbishment, Hyena Pan is now reborn as Elephant Pan, home to 9 ensuite tents, each with a great view of a naturally occurring water pan right in front of the camp.
Actually, the 2025 name change makes sense, despite what the hyenas might think about it. Because elephants really are the main attraction in this part of the Khwai Private Reserve, and you’re bound to get a chance to view them up close in and around an un-fenced camp through which animals are free to roam.
It’s all set in a forest location close to the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. The camp team have dug out two part-submerged hides in which you can get a unique ground level view of the local wildlife going about its business, especially those elephants.
Hyenas are still frequent visitors, so too buffalo, wild dog, hippo, leopard and lion, but it’s those large grey mammals that are the stars of the show, regularly visiting the waterhole, especially during the May to November dry season.
Morning and afternoon game drives starting and ending at the camp will give you the chance to explore your surroundings. You can also book a full day drive during which you’ll venture further along the banks of the Khwai River. Or you can choose to swap four wheels for your own two feet on a walking safari that will involve a fair bit of birdwatching.
And how about booking a night out of camp which you’ll spend in a sky bed? These are located on a raised platform overlooking the water, and should provide you with an unforgettable experience. It’s also possible to book a helicopter trip so you can get a bird’s eye view of where you’re staying and the wildlife that call the reserve home.
Each of the camp’s 9 tents offers simple and comfortable accommodation for two with an ensuite bathroom. All your tent’s lights and the handy phone battery charger are solar powered, and you have a snug outside area with seating where you can sit and enjoy what’s going on around you.
The shared parts of camp include a lounge overlooking the aforementioned waterhole. It’s also the place to go if you need a Wi-Fi connection. Plus there’s a deck for dining, another for soaking up the sun, and yet another by the rim-flow splash pool.
An open air boma has a campfire at its centre, the flames flickering at night to give you somewhere to gather for some game viewing under the stars (the waterhole is illuminated after sundown, allowing you to see all the comings and goings late into the day). The boma is also a great place to enjoy the meals the camp team will serve up, or you can take them back to your tent.
Elephant Pan Camp, formerly known as Hyena Pan, offers guests a variety of immersive safari experiences in Botswana's Khwai Private Reserve. Morning and afternoon game drives in open 4x4 vehicles provide opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. Guided bush walks allow guests to explore the flora and fauna on foot, offering a more intimate connection with the environment. The camp also features ground-level photographic hides near the waterhole, enabling close-up wildlife observation and photography. Additionally, cultural visits to the nearby Khwai village can be arranged, providing insights into the local community's traditions and lifestyle. These activities ensure a comprehensive and enriching safari experience for all guests.
Elephant Pan Camp in Botswana is dedicated to sustainability through a range of eco-friendly practices. The camp is entirely solar-powered, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and minimising its carbon footprint. Each of the tents is equipped with environmentally friendly amenities, including gas geysers for hot water and energy-efficient lighting. Designed to have minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem, the camp blends naturally into its environment. Additionally, Elephant Pan Camp actively supports wildlife conservation and collaborates with local communities to promote sustainable tourism.
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