Located in the private Selinda Reserve overlooking the spectacular Zibadianja Lagoon, Zarafa is consistently mentioned as one of the finest safari camps in all of Botswana. With just four enormous tented suites accommodating a maximum of eight guests, this is intimate luxury at its absolute peak. The camp was designed by award-winning filmmakers and conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert as their vision of the perfect safari experience, and it shows in every detail. Built on raised platforms among a grove of trees, Zarafa evokes the romance of classic explorer expeditions while delivering thoroughly modern comfort. It was Botswana's first Relais & Châteaux property, which gives you an idea of the level of refinement here.
The wildlife viewing in this area is genuinely exceptional. The Linyanti region is renowned for massive elephant herds that congregate around the permanent waters during the dry season, but you'll also find healthy populations of lion, leopard, cheetah, and wild dog. The area is particularly known for African wild dog sightings, and there's a resident lion pride. Activities include morning and afternoon game drives, night drives with spotlights, guided walking safaris, and when water levels permit, cruises on the lagoon aboard the HMS Zib – a furnished houseboat perfect for sundowners.
What really sets Zarafa apart is the attention to detail and the commitment to conservation. Each tent comes equipped with professional Canon cameras and lenses that guests can use throughout their stay, with all photos copied to a USB drive as a souvenir. The camp runs almost entirely on solar power and uses recycled materials wherever possible, making it one of the greenest luxury lodges in Africa.
