Having a reputation as one of the finest safari camps in Africa, let alone Botswana, gives Mombo a lot to live up to. Location-wise, it certainly delivers, situated in a fertile northern area of Chief’s Island in the Okavango Delta, which attracts a wide variety of wildlife (Mombo translates to ‘the place of plenty’ by the way).

Peer out from your deck and you’re likely to see game either grazing or relaxing on the floodplains. For many, this is one of the best camps in Botswana from which to see white and black rhino, and sightings of lion, elephant, cheetah, zebra, buffalo, hyena and giraffe are all frequent in the area.

The camp was rebuilt in 2018 with the new design upping the luxuriousness by several levels, while staying true to the original and extremely popular camp. It’s 100% solar powered and designed to blend in with its surroundings, and the expert host team’s focus is one hundred per cent on ensuring you enjoy the very best service and game drive experiences.

The accommodation

Quality and exclusivity are the watchwords here. There are just 9 luxury tents available, all elevated off the ground and connected by walkways. Each is so big, some have compared their roofs to circus big tops. The recently added family tent is the biggest of them all with an extra bedroom and bathroom.

As you’d expect, the views of the floodplains from all tents are exceptional. Take it all in from your private deck that boasts sofas and beds from where you can watch the wildlife getting on with their daily business.

Turning your attention inside the tent will reveal a layout that’s divided into separate areas each with a specific purpose. The bedroom features a double bed that is a biggie, giving you plenty of room to stretch out. You can have the bed arranged as twins if you prefer. The bathroom has a flushing toilet and two showers (one inside, the other outside) so no one need wait to freshen up. The lounge area has all you need for relaxing times including a classic Chesterfield sofa. And there is the bonus of a dressing room and wardrobe for when you’re getting ready to go out. You can also choose to take your meals in your tent if you prefer.

Classic communal areas

Rub shoulders will fellow safari lovers in the main lodge. Under its thatched roof there’s a lounge, dining room as well as a library. Outside, there’s a fire deck and boma if you fancy eating out in the open.

Pool? Of course there’s a pool, accessed from the lounge area. And if you need more of a workout, head for the gym, from where you can enjoy the kind of views from a treadmill or exercise bike that are only possible from Mombo Camp.

If you’re seeking a pampering – and let’s face it, who isn’t? – a selection of spa treatments is available. You can choose to have these in your own room or the dedicated treatment room.

Worth knowing

Mombo Camp is connected to its smaller sister camp, Little Mombo, where there are 3 more tents offering top quality accommodation.