Mombo Camp

To many, Mombo is considered Botswana’s best lodge, in the best safari region (the Okavango Delta) in the best reserve (the Moremi Game Reserve). In the 1990s, when the former hunting grounds were rehabilitated by Wilderness and developed as its first luxury camp, Mombo not only set a new bar in the design of sustainable safari camps, but worked closely with government and other authorized stakeholders to help ensure the highest standards of conservation for the area. Since then, Wilderness and Mombo have created a rhino reintroduction program, developed a career-training school and converted to solar power. The wildlife viewing is extraordinary from the main deck and raised walkways (which allow for animals to rest in their shade) as well as from the eight luxury accommodations, which are “tents” in name only—beyond canopied beds and copper tubs, doors slide open to reveal thatched-roof cabanas and plunge pools.

The Standout: The possibility of seeing leopards and the elusive pangolin Don’t Miss: A couples massage in the spa, overlooking a floodplain teeming with wildlife

• Mombo’s black and white rhino reintroduction program, among other conservation efforts
• Boma Night, with traditional Tswana songs performed by the fire
• The nine impeccable canvas and wood tents, each with a private deck and plunge pool and sweeping views

Located on Chief's Island, deep in the Moremi Game Reserve, Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp is surrounded by an exhilarating variety of wildlife. So, it’s not surprising that the camp is beloved by National Geographic photographers and film crews who are often nearby filming. This part of the reserve is unbeatable for animal-viewing: prowling cheetahs, prides of lions, packs of wild dogs, strolling elephants and, most thrilling, juvenile leopards. Thanks to the abounding wildlife, game drives are never lacking in excitement. Re-built and re-opened in January 2018, the fourth-generation Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp maintains its focus on conservation (it's 100 percent solar powered). Its accommodations are just as entrancing as their environs. The living units and the walkways between them are raised six feet above the ground, so that Cape buffalo and other game can walk or doze in the shade underneath without having to duck their majestic heads. The camp has eight tents, which are so extensive they may be more akin to pavilions, each with a large entrance area, sitting room with large bar unit, separate bedroom and bathroom, dressing area, vanity with hairdryer and plugs, an indoor and outdoor shower, large bathtub and an expansive porch with a swing bed, lounger and plunge pool. For families, the two-bedroom tent can’t be beat.

The large porches offer panoramic views of the widest parts of the floodplain. Even the most pampered guests will find the main facilities impressive (with a welcoming library and bar area, indoor and outdoor restaurant, gym, spa and large pool). If you opt for a private lunch in the bush, the staff will set up a bathroom—toilet and sink included. The kitchen is very allergy-friendly and churns out one gourmet surprise after another, from sugar beignets during afternoon tea to "sticky chicken" and chocolate pecan pie for dessert. There's even a wood-fired pizza oven for when guests are yearning for a taste of home. But Mombo’s most endearing attribute is undoubtedly its staff, who are so friendly it can be hard to leave.

Those interested in experiencing one of Africa’s legendary safari camps

- Emma Pierce