Well, it might not be a brand-new camp but The Jackal & Hide, the supplier of some of the best photographic safaris in the region, has been renamed Little Sable. Expect a camp of pared-down luxury with comfy rooms, subtly stylish touches and excellent views across the floodplains of Khwai. In the field, it’s all about an authentic, back-to-basics safari experience with classic game drives, mokoro safaris and boat trips all on offer – and all this comes at a truly fantastic price. What’s not to love?
Clean, fresh and pleasingly simple, the main area is a haven of contemporary black-and-white photographs (inspirational as well as stylish!), sunny cushions and polished wood. The building is an excellent vantage point to watch over the waving grasses of Khwai and all its inhabitants; don your binoculars and take a seat under the thatch next to the bar, or make your way to the sunken seating area and fire pit for the best views.
The 8 tents are traditional, Meru-style numbers and although not the biggest on the Botswana safari scene, they are pretty, relaxing and very comfortable. Sheltered by trees and located in a smattering of bushes at the side of the main area, they are also shady and cool – a good consideration in this part of the world! Ensuite bathrooms are located at the back of the tent, whilst large mesh windows at the front allow you to wildlife-watch straight from your pillows. Otherwise, retreat outside to your private veranda for uninterrupted views of the plains.
The Khwai Private Reserve certainly doesn’t have a shortage of wildlife and the varied landscapes support an equally as varied cast of animals. Expect to see leopard, lion and wild dog on game drives whilst boat trips and mokoro safaris (water-level dependent) will yield wonderful sightings of elephant and buffalo on the river banks. With such a huge area to explore and so few other vehicles in the vicinity, this really is a true wilderness experience.
Exploring Khwai is like having your own little piece of the world-famous Okavango Delta – less cars, more wildlife, a fantastic experience!
Sister camp Sable Alley is just down the road – but Little Sable offers virtually the same experience for a fraction of the price.
The camp itself perhaps lacks a little bit of character – but that is more than made up for by the incredible game viewing and wonderful staff.
Little Sable is owned by Natural Selection which is dedicated to conservation, partnering with local communities, governments, and organizations to protect and expand conservation areas. They build eco-friendly camps that blend into the environment and aim to inform guests about Africa's wildlife challenges and successes, hoping to inspire further positive action for wildlife conservation. A contribution of $50 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Little Sable can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Botswana trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Botswana trips featuring Little Sable or get advice and suggestions from one of our Botswana specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Little Sable start from around $720, or US$720, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
An affordable Delta option with wildlife as diverse as the landscape and a smattering of unique lodges
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