The Okavango Delta is close to our hearts – a geologically unusual depression of desert that traps run-off water from mountains nearly 1000 kilometres away, thanks to three well-placed fault lines. Those fissures are the difference between a vast wetland that sustains a bounty of wildlife, and a muddy seep. Mma Dinare (mother buffalo) is a new jewel of a lodge at the south-east edge of the delta, overlooking the Gomoti River and its sprawl of wildlife-filled floodplains. Set within a private concession of 27000-plus hectares, there's an immense wilderness that's just waiting for you to explore its treasures.
A sprawl of wooden decks tucked into a forest at the edge of the floodplain forms the heart of Mma Dinare. The camp has been positioned to make the most of the setting, with plenty of elevated spaces designed for relaxing and observing the action. There's a comfortably furnished lounge under thatch; a second, open-air, lounge with both shade and sun; and, jutting over the plain, a circular deck with a fire pit. The pool is ideal for post-drive dips.
Eight tents tucked into the riverine forest are accessed via wooden boardwalks. Each has a view of the floodplain or river – populated by a cast of elephant, kudu, buffalo, hippo and more. The tents are large, with well-dressed beds draped in netting, an en-suite bathroom with a basin and toilet, and a canvas-walled shower that's open to the sky. Think and gaze on the veranda, or settle down at the small writing desk to record your thoughts.
There's more than sufficient territory to see the creatures that make your blood sing, and numerous ways to do so. Day and night game drives get you close to the action (the guides have an unerring nose for the best sightings); guided walks hone your bush skills; and mokoro boat rides get you close to aquatic creatures. Migrant birds flock here in summer; in winter, birds gather at the water sources. Wattled crane sightings herald the arrival of the floodwaters.
Owned by Kwando Safaris, this property prioritises local employment with a staff comprising of 98% citizens. Their Maun headquarters ensure personalised service, reflecting a commitment to Botswana's tourism capital. Kwando offers careers, supports the Lady Khama Charitable Trust, and initiates projects like the Bucket Project and Mummy's Angels. They're also involved in Pack for a Purpose, encouraging travelers to make a lasting impact by bringing supplies for local initiatives.
Mma Dinare 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 Mma Dinare 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 Mma Dinare start from around $850, or US$850, 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.
Enter the heart of the animal kingdom in Moremi, a glittering landscape where safari dreams come true.
/23.1861874,-19.2268382,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
