There’s a New Secret Safari Destination in Botswana
Introducing Wilderness Mokete
Traverse the Okavango floodplains across the Khwai channels to the East, and you'll witness unequivocally, one of the most unique ecosystems in Botswana. Few have ventured into these great expanses and immense grasslands of the legendary Mababe area.
Wilderness Mokete presents a limited-edition camp that promises a lifetime experience for the select few. Here, the sight of 2,000-strong buffalo herds, tsessebe in their hundreds, and an extraordinary migration, as massive herds of zebras pass through twice a year, will leave you spellbound.
For two short years, Wilderness Mokete will comprise a simple camp of 9 wood-and-thatch chalets each built on a raised deck. This will be exclusively offered as a once-in-a-lifetime trailblazing experience for its privileged guests.
In 2026, a permanent camp will be built in its place and grace this uniquely pristine location for a maximum of 24 guests in ten rooms and two family units. Due to the high wildlife and predator activity in the area, coupled with the camp's open design, Wilderness Mokete sets its minimum age requirement at sixteen years for its guests.
This awe-inspiring ecosystem differs from any other in Botswana and is the only water source existing for hundreds of miles, making it a paradise for mega herds. Picture yourself flying for a solid ten minutes over the same buffalo herd, the spectacle stretching into the horizon. You’ll be bedazzled by thousands of zebras creating a dizzying array of black and white during their migration. Your lodge provides the ultimate seclusion, situated in a 123,000-acre private concession.
Wildlife Sighting Galore
As the Mababe Marsh takes shape, a 6,400 acre wetland forms during the summer season. Although it progressively disappears in the dry season, permanent water nourishes nutrient-rich grasslands, beckoning great herds. Witness 2000-strong buffalo herds, tsessebe in their hundreds, and an extraordinary migration during the turn of seasons in December and again in March when massive herds of zebras pass through the area. Lions hunt actively throughout the day, while high densities of hyenas constantly compete with other predators; cheetah, wild dog, bat-eared fox, jackal, African wild cat, and serval. The mopane belt towards the east of these massive plains is home to leopards and numerous woodland species, whereas abundant birdlife thrives on the marsh peripheries.
Everyday is a New Adventure
Set aside the conventional safari and adopt a new one at Wilderness Mokete. Go on a game drive, day or night, following lions' pursuit of buffalo. Savor a delicious bush lunch. Take your camera and sink into a hide, eye-level with the enormous feet of a breeding herd of elephants. While on a stroll, witness Africa's rarest birds. At day's end, relish a sundowner and gaze over the endless grassland while basking in the calls of the wild.
An Authentic Cultural Experience
From June 1, 2024, Wilderness Mokete will unveil a range of cultural experiences for an authentic Botswana interaction. Learn the ancient art of tracking, sing and dance alongside an African choir, watch a basket-weaving demonstration or join the village children for an afternoon soccer game, sample traditional African cuisine, or sit beside village elders for an evening of storytelling around the fire.
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