Tucked away beneath a cool forest canopy of wild palms and gnarled fig trees, &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge looks out onto the Delta through a maze of brilliant green papyrus. Situated on a private concession, Sandibe has exclusive traversing rights over 22 500 hectares (55 600 acres) of wildlife land adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve. Behind the lodge, golden-grasses floodplains stretch into the distance, framed by lush palm islands and the spires of giant termite mounds. The beautiful organic architecture of the thatched lodge blends seamlessly with one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Tall overarching trees echo the soaring roofs of the guest sitting and dining area, while quiet decks offer views across the wetlands and savannah grasslands. The shaded swimming pool is a refreshing oasis for a cooling dip. At night a constellation of candles illuminates the boma with its al fresco banquet and fine wines from the charcoal-cooled cellar. Alternatively, private decks provide a romantic setting for an intimate dinner for two.

Tread in the footprints of elephants on ancient game paths that lead between the eight guest cottages.  Each thatched ensuite cottage features an open-air shower, allowing guests to feel part of the forest.  Walls are airy screens, admitting the refreshing Okavango breezes, and the cottages are furnished in a fusion of ochre and tactile textures, from leather and silk to rough-hewn wood.  Private decks are idyllic vantage points onto a birdwatcher’s paradise.

WHAT SETS US APART

• Day and night safaris, bush walks during the day
• Situated on the edge of the Delta’s permanent waterways, with a lot of dry land for walks and drives
• One of the best wildlife experiences in the Delta
• Iconic species include giant horned kudu, secretary birds and bat colonies
• Wild dog and cheetah are common
• Elephant, semi-aquatic lechwe antelope, hippo, giraffe
• 22 500 hectare (55 600 acre) private concession, so game viewing remains exclusive
• Sensitive off-roading practices allow close-up game sightings
• Bush walks explore the intimate details of this unique habitat