&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge A cool and contemporary cocoon inspired by its exquisite natural setting
The spirit of &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Delta Lodge
Situated on a private concession in the magnificent Okavango Delta, Sandibe boasts exclusive traversing rights over a vast stretch of land adjacent to the wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve. Inspired by nature and celebrating its stunning setting, the lodge features the best the Delta has to offer in terms of outstanding design, outstanding wildlife viewing and warm local hospitality.
Set in a cool forest canopy of wild palms and gnarled fig trees, this flagship lodge blends seamlessly with one of Africa’s most breath-taking landscapes. Behind the lodge, golden-grassed floodplains inhabited by a staggering variety of wildlife stretch into the distance, framed by lush palm islands and the spires of giant termite mounds. A channel of clear, cool waters runs directly in front of the elevated guest suites, offering unrestricted views over the shimmering beauty of the Delta.
Why We Love it
- Adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve, the lodge offers some of the most exceptional wildlife sightings in the Delta, which guests can enjoy on day and night safaris, as well as bush walks.
- The dazzling architectural design brings guests closer to the exceptional natural beauty of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The lodge is perfect for adventure-seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, first-time or repeat travellers, nature lovers, couples and families.
- Sandibe is situated on the edge of the Delta’s permanent waterways, which means that the areas where game drives and walks take place always remain accessible, even when the Delta waters are at their highest.
The lodge
Inspired by one of the Okavango Delta’s most secretive inhabitants, the guest areas of &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge rise out of the trees clad in a wooden skin of shingles and timber that mirrors the pangolin’s body armour of overlapping scales. Organic and handmade, the lodge blends perfectly with its surroundings, becoming one with the Delta itself.
Stairs rising out of bower of trees lead into cool and spacious interior, ending on a terrace set just above ground level. A curved wooden roof soars high overhead, creating a grand and immense sense of scale. High interiors let in the clear African light and the endless Delta horizons, while an interactive kitchen tantalises guests with the fragrant aroma of spices at each mealtime. Warm and inviting, the vast expanse of the bar invites guests to linger over a sundowner drink or a morning cappuccino, enjoying spectacular views over a sea of papyrus from the elevated viewing deck. Descending to the shaded forest floor, a series of decks open out onto a lantern-lit boma formed from huge logs of descending size that mimic the tail bones of the pangolin.
Decorated in shades of copper and wood, intricately woven baskets abound throughout the guest areas, celebrating the arts and crafts of the Delta. The vast dining room is dominated by an immense table roughly carved from the root of an ironwood tree. Two large woven carpets duplicate the intricate patterns on the underneath of the area’s beautiful water lilies.
Grand interiors open out onto even grander vistas and every nook and cranny opens out onto unparalleled Delta views, even the cosy and intimate massage sala.
While the main guest areas embrace the shelter of the Delta forest, the twelve elegant guest suites peep out from beneath its canopy, raised above the fringes of papyrus that line the Delta channels.
Care of the Land, Wildlife & People
Understanding our impact
We show our commitment to “Care of the Land. Care of the Wildlife. Care of the People” by looking for ways to contribute and give more to wildlife spaces and …
Understanding our impact
We show our commitment to “Care of the Land. Care of the Wildlife. Care of the People” by looking for ways to contribute and give more to wildlife spaces and the communities that live adjacent to them. But we also believe that we can reduce our negative enviromental impact on the earth without compromising our guest experience.
We operate a high-yield, low-impact model by creating very small luxury lodges that can support enormous tracts of biodiverse land, which remains untouched and untrammeled. But, even though &Beyond ‘s footprint is very small (less than 450 bedrooms in total, which, in turn, support over 9 million acres of precious wildlife land), many of our lodges have a sustainability champion, who together with lodge managers, are custodians of our philosophy to “give more” and “take less”.
At every lodge and office we seek out small but meaningful ways of putting our values into action each day. We understand that delighting our guests is the most important thing we can do to sustain our business and thus sustain the wildlife areas we protect.
Over the years, &Beyond has introduced an environmental strategy to assess our lodges from a sustainability and conservation viewpoint. The lodges are annually subjected to an intensive sustainability audit to determine their environmental impact. This allows us to determine lodge-specified strategies to reduce that impact. Additionally, in order to understand and manage some of our impact, monthly measures are taken of the following eco-overheads:
- Water usage
- Electricity consumption
- Diesel and petrol consumption
- Gas and paraffin, charcoal usage (for illuminating and cooking)
- Firewood and charcoal
- Waste production and management
These statistics are collated and analysed in order to help identify problems, as well as to help lodges see how their innovations and savings have paid off. Efficiencies are identified and the lodges are set targets to improve and reduce their impact still further.
The champions and lodge managers look for new “take less “ ideas and, ways to reduce our energy consumption and carbon emissions, recycling initiatives, conservation awareness drives, water efficiency, elimination of exotic plants, addressing erosion, re-greening and many more. They are the drivers who ensure that each department, behind the scenes, finds practical ways of reducing our impact and creating a better company in a better world.
Rhinos Without Borders
Rhinos Without Borders Rhinos Without Borders is an initiative aimed at combatting the scourge of rhino poaching in Africa. The project was born out of the first ever private game …
Rhinos Without Borders
Rhinos Without Borders
Rhinos Without Borders is an initiative aimed at combatting the scourge of rhino poaching in Africa.
The project was born out of the first ever private game reserve donation of rhino to another country, during which &Beyond translocated six white rhino from &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa to Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Facilitated in partnership with RHINO FORCE in 2013, this conservation coup was generously funded by lead sponsor Motorite Administrators.
In 2015 alone, South Africa lost more than a devastating 1 175 rhino to illegal poaching, with a rhino killed every seven hours. More of these magnificent animals are now being lost to poachers every year than there are being born. &Beyond believes by carrying out translocations and diversifying rhino nucleus nodes, &Beyond is playing are fundamental role in securing the ongoing survival of endangered species and this project aims to increase Africa’s dwindling rhino populations for future generations to enjoy. The Okavango Delta has proven to be a successful rhino relocation habitat and Botswana has a strong security and monitoring framework in place, with the country’s military helping to protect the endangered species.
After years of negotiation and planning, the initial translocation of the Rhinos Without Borders project was begun in early 2013 with the full support of the Botswana Rhino Management Committee.
As part of the process of transferring skills and preparing for the arrival of the rhino, &Beyond provided intensive tracking and monitoring training for game scouts from Botswana, held at Phinda Private Game Reserve. The game scouts were familiarised with the use of the satellite collars and tracking equipment intended to monitor the movement and behaviour of the six rhino after their release. A portion of this equipment, as well as anti-poaching uniforms and binoculars, was supplied by the Chipembere Rhino Foundation.
With all six of the translocated rhino thriving in their new habitat, in 2014 &Beyond partnered with Great Plains Conservation to move more than an additional hundred rhino from South Africa to Botswana. This project, which is expected to run over a number of years, calls on all members of the travel industry to join hands in order to make a difference. With over USD 8 million required to cover the costs of the project, both &Beyond and Great Plains have embarked on a number of fundraising activities. Thanks to generous donations from around the world, the translocation of further batches of rhino has been successfully completed from South Africa, by air, and the rhino have been safely released in their new habitat.
Continuous funds are being raised to move further batches of rhino to undisclosed destinations within Botswana.
For more information or to donate to the cause, please visit www.rhinoswithoutborders.com
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Rates & Offers
Suite Rate
Suite Rate
The beautiful organic architecture of the lodge blends seamlessly with one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Drawing its inspiration from nature, &Beyond Sandibe is serene and earthy. Twelve elegant and intimate suites are raised above the papyrus like the nests of golden weaver birds and feature magnificent Delta views, as well as private plunge pools, cosy fireplaces and secluded nooks. Inside, the rooms become cocoons at night, with fireplaces for winter use. Interiors celebrate Botswana craft with pieces that include copper-clad mekoro, basketware and sculpted wooden tables.
Ready to start planning your journey?
Family Suite Rate
Family Suite Rate
Set in a cool forest canopy of wild palms and gnarled fig trees, &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge looks out over spectacular Okavango Delta views. Situated on a private concession, Sandibe has exclusive traversing rights over 22 500 hectares (55 600 acres) of wildlife land adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve. The beautiful organic architecture of the lodge blends seamlessly with one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Drawing its inspiration from nature, &Beyond Sandibe is serene and earthy.
This is the perfect destination for group or family travel. The lodge boasts two spectacular interleading suites that can accommodate two adults and two children (three on special request). Each suite has a lovely ensuite bathroom, private plunge pools, cosy fireplaces and secluded nooks.
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Botswana long stay offer Stay longer for Less
Botswana long stay offer Stay longer for Less
Take advantage of…
Savings up to 15% per person per night off our published rates with longer than 3 night stays at a combination of &Beyond’s Botswana lodges and camps.
Ready to start planning your journey?
Fly me around Botswana Spoil yourself with an unforgettable 7 night Botswana wildlife experience and enjoy complimentary flights between the camps
Fly me around Botswana Spoil yourself with an unforgettable 7 night Botswana wildlife experience and enjoy complimentary flights between the camps
Take advantage of…
Fly me around Botswana – a land of dramatic contrasts, from the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta to the large elephant herds in the Chobe National Park and the unpredictable Savute Channel, which runs dry and floods seemingly at random.
Spend seven nights at a combination of up to three &Beyond lodges and camps in Botswana and enjoy complimentary flights. Save up to USD 4530 per person per 7 night journey.
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Our favourite lodge experiences
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to and around Botswana?
There are relatively few international flights directly into Botswana and it is often easier to fly into Johannesburg in neighbouring South Africa and catch a connecting flight in to Maun, …
How do I get to and around Botswana?
There are relatively few international flights directly into Botswana and it is often easier to fly into Johannesburg in neighbouring South Africa and catch a connecting flight in to Maun, which is the gateway to Botswana’s premier wildlife areas. From here, a network of international scheduled charter flights will take you to your safari destination. Unlike private charters, these small planes carry a number of passengers headed for a specific region and may touch down at a number of bush airstrips along the way.
Because of the among of effort involved in getting to Botswana and the number of destinations worth visiting, it is recommended that visitors set aside ten days to two weeks for their Botswana safari.
Flights
Scheduled Flights
Frequent flights link Johannesburg to Gaborone, Maun and Kasane – the gateways to the national parks and wildlife areas.
Shuttle/Charter Flights
Shuttle/charter flights are the only way of reaching the majority of camps in the Chobe, Moremi, Central Kalahari and Delta areas. Scheduled light aircraft flights depart from Maun and Kasane and handle all inter-camp transfers in this area.
Transfers
Self-Drive
Although Gaborone, Maun and Francistown are accessible by 2-wheel drive cars, travel into Moremi, Chobe and the Central Kalahari can only be undertaken by 4-wheel drive. Self-drive clients have access to most of the Moremi, Savute and Chobe lodges, but lodges in the Okavango Delta itself are only accessible by light aircraft.
Guided Safaris
A large variety of guided safaris are available. Please see our &Beyond Expeditions, detailing a great diversity of guided camping, personalised and lodge-accommodated safaris.
Trains and Coaches
We do not recommend these modes of transport for travel within Botswana.
What to remember when travelling around Botswana
Botswana is not really a self-drive destination unless you are prepared for serious 4×4 driving and check weather conditions carefully, as these impact on the road conditions.
Although Gaborone, Maun and Francistown are accessible by 2-wheel drive cars, travel into Moremi, Chobe and the Central Kalahari can only be undertaken by 4-wheel drive.
How do I get to &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge?
Access is via a scheduled Airlink flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Maun or from Johannesburg to Kasane, followed by a light aircraft flight into the Okavango Delta to Chitabe …
How do I get to &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge?
Access is via a scheduled Airlink flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Maun or from Johannesburg to Kasane, followed by a light aircraft flight into the Okavango Delta to Chitabe airstrip and a game drive from the airstrip to camp
Chitable airstrip coordinates – S 19˚27.268’ E023˚.18.027’
What do I need to know about Botswana?
Botswana is one of the most stable and peaceful countries in Southern Africa, however it helps to be aware of your surroundings and keep your possessions close at all times. …
What do I need to know about Botswana?
Botswana is one of the most stable and peaceful countries in Southern Africa, however it helps to be aware of your surroundings and keep your possessions close at all times. When travelling in the cities, keep your cameras and valuables out of sight.
Botswana is an exclusive destination and government strictly regulates tourism to the country. As a result, park entry prices and commodity prices are higher than elsewhere in Africa. Budget for this; it is absolutely worth it.
Be prepared that the most beautiful destinations in Botswana can be reached by light aircraft only. &Beyond are travel experts in Botswana and will help you organise transfers and shuttle flights.
Lodges in the more remote areas of Botswana do not have electricity. These lodges generally rely on generator power for lighting and refrigeration, but this power only runs at critical times of the day. Please be aware that you will not find a plug socket in your room/tent at many of these lodges.
Currency
US dollars are widely accepted; however, notes dated before 2003 are no longer accepted. Also, high denomination notes may not be accepted.
Banking hours at most commercial banks are Monday to Friday from 08h30 to 15h30 and on Saturday from 08h30 to 11h00.
ATMs are found throughout Botswana’s major city centres and shopping complexes.
The currency is the Pula, where BWP1 is made up of 100 thebe. Please check with your hotel for daily exchange rates.
Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express are accepted by most restaurants, shops and hotels. Proof of identity may be requested, so be sure to carry a passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations.
Safety
It is advised you check with your tour operator or hotel concierge – they will know if there are any potentially unsafe areas along your travel route.
It is wise to avoid deserted areas, particularly at night. If you are on a self-drive journey then please ensure your car is locked at all times – park in well-lit, busy areas.
Dress-down (i.e., don’t wear excessive jewellery) when exploring Africa’s diverse cities. Concealed travel wallets are recommended.
Stopping for hitch hikers is not recommended.
Photography
Please be sensitive when photographing people. Botswana are renowned for being friendly; however it is courteous to ask permission before snapping away.
The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones) is not allowed in any of the conservation areas we manage until such time as their impact on wildlife and anti-poaching initiatives can be assessed. This rule will apply throughout Africa, as our partners in various countries and regions have adopted a similar stance.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Guests visiting Botswana must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of travel and should have two blank pages available in their passport. It is advisable for visitors who intend travelling to Botswana’s neighbouring countries and back to apply for multiple entry visas.
Travel Insurance
It is essential that adequate travel insurance be taken out prior to departure. This should cover any medical situation such as hospitalisation, as well as cancellation, curtailment of arrangements and baggage. When you travel with &Beyond, you are automatically covered by our emergency evacuation insurance. This guarantees emergency evacuation to the nearest hospital should you suffer either severe illness or injury. This does not cover the cost of treatment once in hospital and in no way replaces your normal travel insurance. There are certain medical exclusions. Please advise us of any existing conditions in advance in order to arrange cover, subject to our insurer’s approval. Please contact us for further details.
Health
Botswana is a malaria area and malaria prophylactics are highly recommended. Please consult your medical practitioner prior to travel. The use of additional precautionary measures, such as insect repellents and wearing long-sleeved clothing, long trousers and socks when outside at night, is recommended.
Any person entering Botswana from, or via, a yellow fever infected area must be in possession of a valid International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever.
Tap water
Tap water in Botswana is purified and is safe to drink at hotels, lodges and other public places.
What the experts say
- Carry a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques, and ensure these are kept in a safe place.
- Never leave baggage or luggage unattended.
Some areas in Botswana have malaria, so take precautions. Consult your doctor about the latest anti-malaria precautions.
What is the &Beyond WILDChild Programme?
WILDChild Program With its warm heart, welcoming people and sunny skies, Africa is a dream destination for a family holiday with children of all ages. A place where time slows …
What is the &Beyond WILDChild Programme?
WILDChild Program
With its warm heart, welcoming people and sunny skies, Africa is a dream destination for a family holiday with children of all ages.
A place where time slows down, it offers the luxury of a leisurely pace, ideal to reconnect and renew relationships among families, as well as grow friendships between the children and land, animals and people of Africa.
&Beyond’s WILDChild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.
WILDChild Adventures
“Get your children traveling early. Expose them to the people, the food, the real culture of your destination.” – Joss Kent, &Beyond CEO
Expeditions may involve activities such as tracking and fishing, making traditional bows and arrows, beading, crafting and painting, as well as fun in the lodge garden or kitchen and more. At each of our African lodges, as young, sleepy heads take shelter in the comfort of their beds after a day full of thrills, they will find an assignment for the following day’s expedition laid out on their pillow, ready to fill their dreams with anticipation. Each expedition is carefully selected according to the interests and ages of the children and will be carried out in the care of our friendly staff, from rangers and trackers to child minders and cooks.
The children’s activities available at each of &Beyond’s lodges attempt to tie in with that particular environment, as well as the local heritage of the region. For example, at &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia youngsters may experience stargazing as well as Bushman games that teach them the culture of the region, including how to find food and water in the desert. Meanwhile, in Botswana’s Okavango Delta adventures may include fishing expeditions and making necklaces with the Delta’s beautiful water lilies.
WILDChild Memories
Each WILDChild adventure is made up of unforgettable moments to cherish forever and, to help keep memories of their safari fresh, each young traveller will receive a WILDChild backpack with a special scrapbook and other goodies at the &Beyond lodge where they begin their journey. Throughout the safari, the scrapbook is filled up with mementoes of special times in the bush, from notes and drawings to stickers.
At each subsequent lodge our young guests will receive a different educational or bush-oriented gift, as well as fresh expeditions to carry out, so that each stop adds to their collection and their experience continues to grow throughout their journey. Each &Beyond lodge has something different to offer, whether it is a solar torch, a magnifying glass or a compass. Specially sourced by &Beyond, all our gifts consists of quality products made of recycled or sustainable materials where possible and used to encourage interaction between the child and their ranger or guide, who helps them unravel the mysteries of the African bush and introduces them to local customs and traditions.
To add to each child’s experience, the Safari Shops at &Beyond’s participating lodges and camps also stock a range of WILDChild goodies, including scrapbook stickers and clothing. Through purchasing these mementoes, our young guests not only provide themselves with a tangible reminder of their African adventure but also contribute towards the Community Leaders Education Fund scholarship programme, which assists students from the communities bordering &Beyond’s conservation areas with funding for their tertiary education.
WILDChild in the Making
At the end of your extraordinary family adventure, along with treasured memories of time spent together, you will find your WILDChild has fallen irrevocably in love with the animals, people and landscapes of Africa, a true conservationist in the making.
When should I visit Botswana?
Few offer as much to visitors as Botswana. A favourable exchange rate, superb accommodation and infrastructure, coupled with a safe and stable environment make this a great country to visit. …
When should I visit Botswana?
Few offer as much to visitors as Botswana. A favourable exchange rate, superb accommodation and infrastructure, coupled with a safe and stable environment make this a great country to visit. places in Africa
Botswana offers superb game viewing and safari activities throughout the year. The winter months (May to September) are dry, with warm and sunny days (26ºC / 79ºF average) but temperatures do drop dramatically at night. The summer months (October to April) are hot (25ºC / 77ºF – 45ºC / 113ºF).
The best time to see Botswana’s prolific bird life is during the wet summer, between November and March, when the Okavango Delta is teeming with migratory birds.
Okavango Delta
In the spectacular Delta the rising floodwater reach their peak in April or May. While the rest of Botswana lies in the grip of the dusty, dry season during winter, which last from June to August, the Okavango is a mass of shimmering lagoons and channels. The floodwaters start to recede in September or October. During the summer months from November to March, the warm days usher in photogenic afternoon thundershowers. This is also birthing season, when newly born antelope are trying out their wobbly legs and baby birds are venturing out of their nests.
Chobe National Park
In the Chobe National Park the dry winter brings even more wildlife to the banks of the Chobe River as water sources dry up elsewhere. From November to March summer brings the rainy season, during which wildflowers burst into bloom, babies are born and the exquisite carmine bee-eaters start nesting in the islands on the Chobe River.
Savute
In Savute, May brings increased sightings of African wild dog as the females begin to den. September to October is the driest season, when flocks of birds congregate around the artificial watering holes. As the rains begin in November, large breeding herds of elephant move into the wide open Savute Marsh. During the summer months of November and December thousands of zebra migrate through Savute in search of grazing.
How do I get to and around the Okavango Delta?
Access is via scheduled charter flights from Maun into the Okavango Delta, followed by a road and / or boat transfer to camp. Airlink have a flight from Johannesburg or …
How do I get to and around the Okavango Delta?
Access is via scheduled charter flights from Maun into the Okavango Delta, followed by a road and / or boat transfer to camp.
Airlink have a flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Maun.
What should I expect on a Botswana safari?
With its remote wildlife areas and vast stretches of sparsely populated land, a Botswana safari tour is a very different experience than a safari elsewhere in Africa. Whether in the …
What should I expect on a Botswana safari?
With its remote wildlife areas and vast stretches of sparsely populated land, a Botswana safari tour is a very different experience than a safari elsewhere in Africa. Whether in the wide expanses of the Kalahari Desert and the Makgadikgadi Pans or among a network of channels and lagoons in the Okavango Delta Botswana, the scenery is distinctive. The pace of safari is gentler, with time spent slowing down and enjoying the smaller details. Wildlife sightings may not be as frequent as on a South African safari or in East Africa but they are more exclusive, most often only shared with those on your safari vehicle.
Botswana is an exclusive safari destination and tourism is strictly regulated. As a result, prices may appear higher than elsewhere in Africa, but the experience is unfailingly of a high quality, most often in very remote and untouched parts of the country. The most beautiful destinations in Botswana can only be reached by light aircraft, which also influences the cost of your safari, although it adds to the experience.
Camps and lodges in the Okavango Delta are generally situated on private concessions. This means that guests are able to participate in a wider range of activities, including game drives, nature walks, boating excursions or trips in traditional canoes known as mokoro. In areas where lodges can be easily accessed by land game drives can continue after dark, providing a glimpse of the nocturnal activities of Botswana’s wildlife.
Lodges in the more remote areas of Botswana do not have electricity and rely on generator power for lighting and refrigeration. Generators may often be switched off at night, which means that air conditioning may not function during this time. Should you have any medical requirements that call for a 24-hour electricity supply, most lodges will be able to oblige, with the exception of some tented camps or mobile operations.
Why visit the Okavango Delta?
The largest inland delta in the world, the Okavango Delta is the most unexpected wonder – water present in a desert. The broad Okavango River sinks into the dry sands …
Why visit the Okavango Delta?
The largest inland delta in the world, the Okavango Delta is the most unexpected wonder – water present in a desert. The broad Okavango River sinks into the dry sands of the Kalahari Desert, creating a lush and waterlogged oasis with crystal clear lagoons and channels, reeded islands and fertile floodplains. Dubbed “the river that never finds the sea”, this magical oasis spreads over more than 15 500 km² (almost 6 000 square miles) and yet is so fragile that, if it were denied water for even a decade, it would revert to a semi-desert.
This breath-taking environment constantly adapts and changes with the ebb and flow of the floodwaters that seasonally inundate large portions of the Delta. Although dry for two thirds of the year, during the winter months the rising floodwaters create a maze of marshes, small wooded islands and shallow lagoons. Water lilies and other aquatic plants flourish in the shallow water, while water birds inhabit the banks of papyrus. As relatively little water can be found elsewhere during this time, the wildlife is drawn to the clear waters of the Delta.
On the edges of the Delta, where land blurs with water, breeding herds of elephant splash gently through shallow channels, the long necks of a family of giraffe materialise slowly out of the Delta skyline and graceful sitatunga antelope hide in the reeds. It is a place where you can wonder at the antics of wild dog in the morning and cast a line for tiger fish in the afternoon, wake in the dappled shade of a forest and enjoy dinner beneath the boughs of a massive baobab at full moon.
At the heart of the Delta lies a secluded network of waterways and islands where life slows down even further. Beautiful little reed frogs cling to the water grasses and a variety of incredible bird species make their appearance, from jewelled kingfishers and bee-eaters to ponderous herons and cranes and solemn-looking owls. Red lechwe scamper through the shallows and wild cat, serval and pangolin can be spotted at night, when the moon reflects off the backs of a family of hippo coming out of the water to graze, turning them into slabs of shining silver.
Wildlife
The Okavango Delta is home to a large number of species, including some that are specially adapted to the semi-aquatic lifestyle, like the elegant red lechwe and shy sitatunga antelope. Lion prides, cheetah, leopard and African wild dog may be encountered, while hippo reside in deeper channels and lagoons. Honey badgers are observed during daylight hours. Roan and sable antelope favour taller grass in open woodlands and families of dwarf and banded mongoose occupy large termite mounds.
Graceful giraffe, with their impossibly long necks, and herds of zebra can be encountered on the floodplains. Lion, as well as other predators, can also be found in the area, particularly in the drier areas. Although predominantly nocturnal and difficult to spot, leopard occur in the dense forest are the water’s edge. The sparkling channels teem with a variety of fish, while hundreds of bird species, frogs and insects inhabit the reeded banks.
Why Visit?
- The Okavango Delta is a large inland delta formed where the Okavango River reaches a tectonic trough in the central part of the endorheic basin of the Kalahari.
- All the water reaching the Delta is ultimately evaporated and transpired, and does not flow into any sea or ocean.
- Each year approximately 11 cubic kilometres of water spreads over the 6,000-15,000 km² area.
- Some flood-waters drain into Lake Ngami. The Moremi Game Reserve, a National Park, is on the eastern side of the Delta.
- The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa
Climate
Summer (October – April)
Min 20°C/69°F Max 30°C/86°F
Winter (May – September)
Min 6°C/42°F Max 25°C/78°F
During summer and spring, hot days usher in thunderstorms over a dry Delta, while in winter the land dries and the Delta fills with water.
Journeys to inspire
What other people say about us
2016 – Living Etc Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Living Etc Magazine
2016 – Living Etc Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Living Etc Magazine
2017 – Upscale Living Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Upscale Living Magazine – Exquisite Cuisines
2017 – Upscale Living Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Upscale Living Magazine – Exquisite Cuisines
2015 – House and Garden
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge, Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp featured in House and Garden Magazine
2015 – House and Garden
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, Xudum Okavango Delta Lodge, Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp featured in House and Garden Magazine
2015 – Hotels by Design Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Hotel by Design Magazine
2015 – Hotels by Design Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Hotel by Design Magazine
2015 – Conde Nast Traveller
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Conde Nast Traveller
2015 – Conde Nast Traveller
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge featured in Conde Nast Traveller
Safari Awards 2016
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge wins the Best Design (Africa) category at the Safari Awards 2016. The lodge is also listed as runner-up in Best Safari Cuisine (Botswana) and Best Design (Botswana)
World Travel Awards
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is Botswana’s Leading Safari Lodge at the World Travel Awards 2014
Safari Awards
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge wins the Best Design (Africa) and the Best Design (Botswana) categories and is runner-up in the Best Safari Cuisine (Botswana) category at the Safari Awards 2015
TripAdvisor
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge receives the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2013
Condé Nast Traveler
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is featured at #9 in the Top Africa Resorts in the Condé Nast Traveler 100 Best World Readers’ Choice Awards 2009
Condé Nast Traveler
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is featured on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List of the World’s Best Places to Stay (Africa & Middle East) 2011
World Travel Magazine
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is one of World Travel Magazine’s Luxury 50 2015