Mapula Lodge

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Situated on a tree-studded island on the uncrowded, northern fringes of the world-famous Okavango Delta, Mapula Lodge is a relaxed and stylish lodge.

Opening in April 2018, accommodations at the lodge will consist of nine canvas-and-thatch tents. There are six twins, two doubles, and one family tent to choose from. Each tent features a king-size metal four-posters bed complete with feather-filled pillows and cozy duvets. A mini-lounge area is furnished with Malawi chairs. The en suite bathrooms come with both an indoor and outdoor shower.

The camp is located on the northern edge of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because of its location in the extreme north, the region encompasses a wide range of habitats that are home to nearly all the Okavango’s diverse wildlife species. The annually flooded grasslands surrounding the wooded island are locally referred to as ‘melapo’ and present good seasonal viewing of elephant, giraffe, impala, sable antelope, kudu, zebra, common waterbuck and reedbuck, tsessebe, wildebeest, red lechwe, and Cape buffalo. Hippo and crocodile are common in the waterways. Predators living in the Delta include the African wild dog, several resident prides of lion, as well as leopard, cheetah, and African wildcat.

The permanent and deep channels that surround the camp lend themselves to water activities including mokoro tours in a traditional dug-out canoe steered by long poles and motor boat rides. These methods provide a unique perspective on the landscape and wildlife. Traditional game drives in 4x4s and led by expert guides are also available to traverse the nearby savannas in search of big game animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and wildebeest. The wetlands combining with the drier grasslands are also home to an impressive variety of birdlife including Pel’s fishing owl and the African skimmer. Anglers can enjoy some catch and release fishing of eighty-five recorded species of fish including tigerfish, tilapia and catfish. While, helicopter rides can be booked for an aerial view of the Delta.

The main area of camp has many places to kick back, relax, and take in the views. The lounge offers deep, comfy chairs and sofas to sink into and watch the wildlife. The ‘chill pit’ is a special sunken lounge overlooking the hippo-filled lagoon. The camp’s beautiful pool invites guests to cool off while still enjoying the views of the lagoon. An environmentally friendly property, the camp runs on eighty percent solar power.