Sounds super-futuristic, doesn’t it? Skybeds. It conjures images of mattresses floating in star lit skies as wild animals roam the plains below. To us, anyway.
The reality isn’t actually too far off that. Staying here is certainly an experience that’ll have you feeling like you’re floating on air, and there will be wild animals roaming below you.
You’ll need to venture deep into the Khwai Private Reserve in Botswana to experience the skybeds. A trio of elevated platforms give the place its name, stretching up 5 metres above the grasslands. Each towering structure has two levels - one hosting your enclosed dressing area and bathroom (with shower and flushable WC), the other your bed which gives you an unadulterated view of the skies and surrounding scenery.
And this being Botswana, that scenery is seriously impressive. There’s a waterhole nearby where you’re likely to see elephant, hyena, buffalo and giraffe drinking or splashing. Sometimes big cats visit the area, but a sighting of one of these during your stay can’t be guaranteed.
What can be guaranteed is high quality service from the camp team who’ll ensure you have all you need to make your sleepout under the stars truly relaxing and memorable. There’s a raised communal area in camp too where there’s a table and chairs where you can enjoy meals cooked over an open fire, sundowners served with or without ice as you prefer, and views of your surroundings.
Skybeds aren’t recommended if you’re seeking undisturbed sleep, as you might imagine. Being close to a waterhole and open to the elements means you’re likely to hear unfamiliar sounds, such as elephants drinking, wild birds chirping and honey badgers rustling. And if there’s a full moon, it might look like someone’s left lights on that you can’t turn off, so it’s a good idea to bring an eye mask!
Please note that Skybeds can only be booked in combination with a stay at Elephant Pan, Tuludi, Sable Alley and Little Sable in Khwai Private Reserve.
Although the sleeping arrangements are a major part of the skybeds experience, there are still plenty of activities to look forward to during the day. A visit to the hide at ground level a matter of metres from the watering hole will give you a chance to view the wildlife from a different angle. Game drives and safari walks will take you to places where you could see lion and leopard, wild dog and waterbuck, buffalo, warthog and more.
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