Wild Expeditions Africa, an authentic safari camp and mobile expedition group, has expanded into the remote northern Okavango Delta of Botswana and is currently building a new tented camp named Karangoma, scheduled to open on May 1.
Born in collaboration with local elder Olatotse Sarefo, the camp is rooted in Bukakhwe San and Hambukushu cultures and aims to celebrate traditional skills such as tracking wild animals, as well as those associated with making and playing traditional musical instruments, which are fast disappearing. Karangoma is a Senbukushu word that describes 'beating drums, curing ancestors' illnesses, bringing a good future to the tribe, and dancing when sick.' This essence of healing and harmony is what the camp seeks to offer its guests, a reconnection with nature and traditional culture.
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Located in the wildlife-rich NG12 concession area of the Northern Okavango, the camp consists of just six tented suites, including a family room. Each suite is approximately 350 square feet and includes a bedroom, lounge, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The design and strategic orientation of the tents focuses on maximizing views of the surrounding floodplain.
The camp's common areas, consisting of a lounge and dining area, are also designed to offer panoramic views of the floodplain. Additional amenities include a fire pit and plunge pool.
Karangoma boasts approximately 75,000 acres of diverse habitat. This wildlife-rich region offers access to floodplains, waterways, lagoons, islands and even extensive woodland dotted with baobab trees. The camp's location allows for excellent wildlife viewing experiences, especially during the dry winter months when large mammals gather at the junction of woodlands and floodplains. This results in higher densities of species such as zebras, buffalo and elephants, and frequent sightings of major predators including lions, hyenas, leopards, wild dogs and cheetahs.
The camp offers a variety of activities including day and night game drives, walks, mokoro trips and boat rides. The camp will be dedicated to supporting local communities in managing wildlife-livestock interactions. In collaboration with the Gudigwa community and NGOs, Karangoma is introducing innovative livestock grazing techniques and veterinary management. Guests have the opportunity to witness and understand the challenges and solutions needed to balance wildlife conservation and rural life.
