Maun is the well-established gateway to the Okavango Delta, where tiny planes depart every few hours, filled with eager travellers. Set in a 250-hectare private reserve on the outskirts of the main town, Thamo Telele offers an amuse-bouche before the real safari begins. Meaning 'long neck' in Setswana, the lodge is named after the youngest of its resident giraffe who wander the grounds - the staff will teach you how to identify each one based on their pattern! Thamo has an easygoing feel and families are very welcome - the gardens are big and lush, and the reserve is predator-free.
Thamo Telele has nine safari-style tents on raised wooden platforms. The twin or double beds are shrouded in netting and dotted with scatter cushions (with a giraffe motif, of course), and just next to them is a small sitting area. Bathrooms are large and luxe with clawfoot tubs, dual vanities and outdoor showers. There are also two thatched honeymoon chalets, both boasting King-sized beds and sunken baths. All accommodation is air-conditioned and the forest provides an added sense of privacy.
The lodge lets you tap into that safari buzz early or hold onto it until the moment you leave for home. What's not to love about passing a herd of giraffe on the way to breakfast?
Thamo Telele is a birder's paradise and for the very best sightings (especially migrant species), visit between October and March.
While the lodge is extremely family-friendly, be aware that children under six aren't accommodated.
Thamo Telele 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
Thamo Telele 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 Thamo Telele 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 Thamo Telele start from around $270, or US$270, 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.
Eclectic, fun and very practical, Maun is the gateway to the Delta and a weary traveller’s dream.
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