Machaba Safaris have a stunning collection of authentic eco-luxury camps in a range of locations in the Okavango, Chobe, Hwange and Mana Pools.
In the Okavango Delta in Botswana these range from Machaba Camp and Little Machaba the Khwai Community Area, through to Gomoti Plains, Gomoti Private and Kiri Camp all located in Private Concessions. 2025 will see the introduction of Machaba’s first camp to guarantee water activities year round, Monachira Camp, located 5kms from Shinde on the Monachira Channel, which forms the northern boundary of Moremi Game Reserve. So why have a number of camps in one region – read on to find out…
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the most unique and ecologically diverse ecosystems in the world. Its special qualities include:
Seasonal Flooding
The Okavango Delta is an inland delta, which means it doesn’t flow into the sea. Instead, it spreads across the Kalahari Desert. Each year, the delta floods from rain falling hundreds of kilometres away in the Angolan highlands. This flooding occurs during the dry season, creating a lush, green oasis in the midst of an otherwise arid region.
Biodiversity
The delta supports a remarkable range of wildlife, including:
World Heritage Site
In 2014, the Okavango Delta was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological importance and the extraordinary diversity of species it sustains.
Unique Geography
Unlike most river deltas that empty into oceans, the Okavango River spreads over a tectonic trough, creating a permanent wetland. The delta consists of channels, lagoons, swamps, and islands that shift over time, creating a constantly evolving landscape.
Pristine Wilderness
Much of the Okavango Delta remains relatively untouched by human activity. Its remote location and limited infrastructure make it one of the most pristine wilderness areas in Africa, attracting eco-tourism focused on low-impact safaris.
These factors combine to make the Okavango Delta an extraordinary natural wonder, blending water and desert ecosystems in a way that is rarely seen elsewhere.
Machaba Safaris can also be found in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools in Zimbabwe.
In Hwange they have 2 very different, distinct and unique camps. Deteema Springs in the North and Verney’s Camp further south. Due to the sheer size of Hwange, twinning these 2 camps for a 4 or 5 night safari ensures guests get 2 very different safari experiences. A day’s game drive with a lunch stop will enable guests to travel from one camp to the other without feeling like they have lost time in a transfer. So read on to find out what makes Hwange so special…
Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is special for several reasons, combining remarkable wildlife diversity, unique ecosystems, and a rich cultural history. Here are some key aspects that make Hwange National Park stand out:
Largest National Park in Zimbabwe
Hwange is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, covering about 14,650 square kilometers (5,660 square miles). Its vast size accommodates a wide range of ecosystems, from semi-arid savannas to dense woodlands.
Incredible Elephant Population
Hwange is famous for having one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. The park is home to over 40,000 elephants, offering visitors frequent and close encounters with these majestic animals. This population is particularly impressive during the dry season when large herds gather around waterholes.
Diverse Wildlife
Apart from elephants, Hwange is known for its rich wildlife diversity, with over 100 species of mammals.
Prolific Waterholes
Hwange’s waterholes, many of which are artificially maintained during the dry season, are central to the park’s wildlife. These waterholes attract a wide range of animals and create fantastic opportunities for viewing large concentrations of game, especially elephants, lions, and other predators.
Varied Ecosystems
The park contains different types of landscapes, including acacia and mopane woodlands, and open grasslands. This variety of habitats supports a wide range of wildlife, each adapted to its particular environment.
Conservation Success
Hwange has been at the forefront of conservation in Zimbabwe. Despite challenges such as droughts and poaching, the park has managed to maintain healthy populations of many endangered species. Active anti-poaching efforts, sustainable tourism, and local community involvement contribute to this success.
Remote Wilderness
Despite its large size, Hwange remains relatively remote and uncrowded compared to some other African parks. This makes it ideal for visitors seeking an authentic and serene wilderness experience without large crowds of tourists.
Close to Victoria Falls
The park’s proximity to Victoria Falls (about 100 kilometres away) makes it a convenient addition to safaris for those visiting the iconic waterfall. Many visitors combine the two for an ultimate Zimbabwean experience.
Walking Safaris and Eco-Tourism
Hwange offers exciting walking safaris, where visitors can explore the bush on foot with experienced guides. This provides an intimate and immersive way to experience the park’s wilderness. The park also encourages sustainable, eco-friendly tourism, with many camps and lodges practicing environmentally conscious operations.
Hwange’s blend of massive elephant herds, predator-prey dynamics, unspoiled landscapes, and rich biodiversity make it one of Africa’s most compelling wildlife destinations.
AND there are flight connections direct to Mana Pools from Hwange, so it is simple to combine Ingwe Pan and Mana River Camp with our Hwange camps.