One of the Okavango Delta’s most complete safari experiences
Vumbura Plains occupies a private wilderness area in the northern Okavango Delta where permanent waterways, seasonal floodplains, open grassland and woodland meet. That diversity gives the camp one of its greatest strengths: guests can experience Botswana by both land and water from the same base.
Rather than choosing between a game-drive camp and a water camp, Vumbura can combine both, with activities shaped by seasonal conditions.
The camp
Set on raised decks above the floodplain, Vumbura Plains uses wood, glass and canvas to keep the landscape visible throughout the property.
The camp is spacious by Delta standards and its suites are spread along the water’s edge. The main lounge and dining areas are open to the surroundings, while local design and ingredients reflect Wilderness’s long-standing partnership with the Okavango Community Trust.
Accommodation
The elevated suites have private viewing decks, their own plunge pools, sun loungers and covered salas suitable for relaxing or private dining.
Family accommodation is available, making Vumbura particularly useful when planning a high-end Botswana safari for parents and children.
The sense of space is one of the property’s defining features. This is not an ultra-minimal bush camp: it offers room to retreat properly between activities.
Game drives
Twice-daily game drives explore a private wilderness area of approximately 60,000 hectares bordering Moremi Game Reserve.
The mosaic of habitats supports impressive wildlife diversity, including lion, wild dog, buffalo and a wide range of antelope. The changing water levels can alter both the scenery and the way animals move through it.
Explore by water
Mokoro excursions provide the classic quiet Delta experience, gliding through narrow channels close to the waterline.
Motorboat trips allow guests to cover greater distances through deeper waterways, while seasonal catch-and-release fishing provides another way to spend time on the water.
Guided walks may also be possible, adding a slower interpretation of tracks, plants and smaller wildlife.
Dining and downtime
Vumbura’s food places emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, including dishes drawing on ingredients and traditions from the Okavango region.
Private plunge pools make the suites particularly comfortable during the heat of the day, while in-room massage treatments can be arranged.
Good to know
Vumbura Plains is an excellent choice for travellers who have limited time in the Delta and want as much variety as possible from one camp.
As with all Okavango properties, the precise balance of land and water activities is influenced by seasonal water conditions.
Highlights
- Private 60,000-hectare wilderness area
- Land and water safari from one camp
- Twice-daily game drives
- Mokoro excursions
- Motorboat safaris
- Seasonal catch-and-release fishing
- Private plunge pools
- Family accommodation available
- Strong predator and plains-game viewing
- Partnership with the Okavango Community Trust
Why we like it
Vumbura Plains is valuable because it delivers breadth without making the experience feel compromised. Guests can move from a game drive to a mokoro or boat safari and see how dramatically the Okavango changes between dry land, floodplain and permanent water.
Speak to Private Hideaway Escapes about including Vumbura Plains in a tailor-made Botswana safari.
