Khwai Leadwood

Part of the African Bush Camps family, Khwai Leadwood is a gem on the edge of the Okavango Delta. Built on the banks of the Khwai River it is perfectly placed to witness the incredible local wildlife which includes elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippo and many more. Offering early morning, late afternoon and night-time safari drives, as well as river cruising by traditional mokoro boat, this camp give the visitor every opportunity to spot the vast array of wildlife that graze this region.

Khwai Leadwood is a luxury tented camp made up of 7 tented suites (6 standard and 1 family tent); small but perfectly formed. Carefully designed to fit in with its natural surroundings it has one main communal area, cosily closed on three sides with tented walls but with the back of the property completely open to the elements and looking out over to Moremi across the Khwai River. There is nothing between you and the wildlife that wander so casually along the riverside and to the front steps of the property. With tented canopy overhead, wooden walkways and a wide terrace with firepit looking out to the river and plains beyond, it makes for a fantastic viewing platform – a place where one can observe respectfully in comfort of cushioned sofas and fully stocked bar, while feeling connected with nature.

What makes this camp special is it’s unique local between Botswana’s big hitters, Moremi and Chobe National Parks. The Khwai River is an offshoot of the Okavango Delta and has sustained water all year around, attracting the elephants of Chobe and the cats of Moremi so no matter what time you visit you are certain to see some spectacular wildlife. But if you can stand the heat, the best time to visit is in the dry season (Sept – Nov) when the wildlife is more diverse as animals come in search for water. If visiting in the wet season (from Nov – Feb) you will be rewarded with seeing the many new additions to Moremi National Park as the new generation of animals are born. At this time the Okavango Delta floods and the area around the camp turn to marsh lands, but with elevated 4x4 jeeps, the safari drives can continue. What’s more, this area sees no migration and the big cats and zebras are based here all year round.

The décor here is gorgeously executed with sumptuous furnishings adorned with beautiful embroidery, animal prints and bead embellishments, achieving chic African style with home comforts. The resort is modern luxury but nostalgic with weathered maps on the walls, antique compasses and trinket telescopes adorning the dark wood shelves.

The rooms come with private verandas looking out to the river, ensuite bathrooms with twin vanities, indoor and outdoor showers, tea and coffee station, ample mosquito nets, and desk with an array of plug sockets so you can stay fully charged. There is limited WiFi, in the reception area only, but we recommend putting your phone on airplane mode and soaking up the remoteness of this incredibly special place out in the wilderness.  

All meals and activities are included in your stay here, and your guides will make sure to treat you with sundowner drinks at a great sunset spot each evening. We also recommend taking a 30-minute helicopter flyover during your stay to give you a better sense of the region and see the wildlife in glorious unison from the skies. Helicopter flyovers are included in stays of 3-nights or more.

You either get the point of Africa or you don’t. What draws me backyear after year is that it is like the world with the lid off.
AA Gill