An intimate Okavango Wilderness Escape

Kanana’s private concession is a secluded gem on the Xudum River, nestled in the southwestern reaches of the Okavango Delta. A beautiful mosaic of palm-fringed islands, ancient figs, ebony and knobthorn trees creates a rich habitat for an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife and plant species. This diverse ecosystem makes Kanana an exceptional destination for experiencing the remarkable biodiversity of the Okavango.

Kanana Highlights

• Newly rebuilt and refurbished, with five-star status awarded by the Botswana Tourism Board
• Exclusive private concession offering both land and seasonal water-based activities
• EcoTourism Certified and powered entirely by solar energy
• Morning and afternoon game drives, plus night drives with spotlighting
• Private motorboat access to one of Southern Africa’s largest heronries, subject to water levels
• Guided walking safaris accompanied by professionally trained and armed guides
• Fishing available from March to December, excluding January and February
• Swimming pool
• Exclusive Sleep Out Deck
• Exceptional birding, including regular sightings of the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl
• Wi-Fi available in camp
• Open throughout the year

Comfort in the Wilderness

Guests stay in seven spacious twin and double safari tents, thoughtfully positioned to provide privacy while remaining within easy reach of the main camp. Each tent features a private en-suite bathroom with a generous walk-in shower and luxurious fittings.

Families are accommodated in a spacious two-bedroom family tent, complete with two separate en-suite bathrooms. With its welcoming atmosphere and child-friendly approach, Kanana is an excellent choice for families seeking an authentic safari experience.

Where Land meets Water

Kanana’s character changes with the seasonal rhythm of the Okavango. As the annual floodwaters arrive, sections of the concession become a spectacular aquatic wonderland, allowing guests to experience the Delta from both land and water.

When water levels are suitable, guests can explore the waterways by mokoro or motorboat, navigating beautiful channels while discovering the Delta’s remarkable birdlife, plants and wildlife. At peak flood, the rising waters can even surround the camp’s elevated teak decks, creating the unforgettable feeling of being immersed in the wilderness.

The Sleep Out Deck offers another extraordinary way to experience the Delta, giving guests the opportunity to spend a night beneath the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Wildlife and Activities

Activities at Kanana are shaped by the changing water levels of the Delta. Morning and afternoon game drives take place in open safari vehicles, with afternoon outings often extending into the evening. A window-seat guarantee ensures every guest enjoys a comfortable viewing position, while individual camera mounts make it easier to capture memorable wildlife encounters.

When the floodwaters arrive, mokoro excursions and motorboat safaris provide a completely different perspective of the concession. Guests can explore the waterways while observing the exceptional variety of birds, plants and reptiles that thrive in this unique environment.

Guided bush walks offer an opportunity to discover the smaller details of the ecosystem, from animal tracks and insects to indigenous plants and reptiles. Fishing is also available when conditions allow, with opportunities to catch tilapia, African pike and sharp-tooth catfish.

The private concession provides excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters, with lion, leopard and African wild dog frequently seen moving through the area. The setting also allows for experiences such as guided walks and night drives, adding variety to the traditional safari experience.

Kanana is particularly renowned for its birdlife, with a seasonal heronry that ranks among the largest in Southern Africa. Regular sightings of the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl make the concession a favourite among birding enthusiasts.

The Kanana Sleep Out

The Kanana Sleep Out offers guests the chance to spend a memorable night immersed in the wilderness of the Okavango Delta.

After an afternoon safari, guests arrive at the secluded Sleep Out Deck, where chefs prepare and serve a delicious dinner beside the fire. A comfortable bed beneath mosquito netting provides a peaceful night beneath the African sky, while a private bathroom with a heated shower brings an added touch of comfort.

At sunrise, guests can enjoy a fireside breakfast featuring freshly prepared jaffles and a light continental selection while watching the first light spread across the floodplains. From there, guests can head directly into their morning activity without returning to camp.

The Sleep Out experience is available from April to November and can be arranged with or without a private vehicle, although a private vehicle is recommended for greater flexibility and ease of coordination.