MY STAY AT JAO CAMP

During my Botswana trip last December, I had a great “water-safari” experience in the Okavango Delta. I say “water-safari”; because when you sail in a mokoro -the traditional dug-out canoe- you see lots of animals -hippos, crocs, ellies and hundreds of colorful birds- and you have a different experience of the African wildlife. Bathing under the African sun is just another beautiful story.

A river delta leads to the open sea. But the Okavango River empties onto open land and floods the savannah. Jao Camp is set in an area shaded by a canopy of trees. The nine tents offer en-suite facilities with indoor and outdoor showers. I must admit, for a five-star luxury safari camp, Jao needs some renovation. It has a fusion style of Balinese and African décor, but quite “old” and old-fashioned. When I left the camp, I had no good impressions about my stay. But the location is very good and the guides are great.

•  The game viewing is superb. Huge herds of red lechwe are followed by big prides of lion! Many bird species are resident such as Meyer’s parrot, African harrier hawk, black heron, coppery-tailed coucal, and black crake being some of the avian treasures found at Jao Camp.
• The award-winning spa offers traditional African massages by Africology products.
• The mokoro excursion on the Delta is absolutely amazing!
• The Amarula waiting for you in your suit tent helps you fall asleep easily!
• A raised hide located about 20 minutes from camp is a great place to watch the comings and goings of wildlife. The hide can also be used for sleep-outs for a maximum of four people at a time.
• The fully equipped gym keeps you fit and energetic during your holiday.

Wilderness Safaris, wilderness-safaris.com