In the untamed heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where floodwaters weave through a labyrinth of islands and channels, Kanana Camp emerges as a sanctuary of understated elegance. This secluded retreat, nestled along the Xudum River, has long been a well-kept secret among discerning travelers—a place where the wild pulse of Africa meets effortless sophistication.
Fresh from a 2024 transformation, Kanana has been reimagined with a refined aesthetic that honors its pristine surroundings. Earthy tones mirror the riverine woodlands, while delicate eggshell accents pay homage to the Delta’s vast heronry. The camp’s redesign—awarded five stars by the Botswana Tourism Board—seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with the raw beauty of the bush.
Kanana’s magic lies in its duality. When the annual floods arrive, the landscape transforms into a liquid paradise, inviting guests to glide through reed-lined channels by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) or motorboat, drifting past herons, kingfishers, and the occasional elephant wading through the shallows. In drier months, the concession reveals a different kind of drama—open savannas where lions stalk impala, wild dogs race across the plains, and leopards melt into the dappled shade of ancient trees.
Adventure here is unhurried yet exhilarating. Sunrise game drives yield close encounters with the Delta’s iconic wildlife, while guided walking safaris offer an intimate perspective on the ecosystem’s intricate details. As dusk falls, night drives unveil a hidden world of bushbabies, genets, and the glowing eyes of predators on the prowl. For bird lovers, Kanana is nothing short of paradise. The camp holds exclusive access to one of Southern Africa’s largest heronries, where thousands of waterbirds nest in a cacophony of wings and calls. Keen-eyed visitors may even spot the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl, a rare and coveted sighting among ornithologists.
After days spent exploring, Kanana’s seven tented suites—including a spacious two-bedroom family unit—offer a haven of tranquility. Each airy retreat features a private deck, an en-suite bathroom with a generous walk-in shower framed by one-way glass for uninterrupted Delta views, and thoughtful touches like a coffee station and charging ports. The design, by Cate Simpson of Reflecting Africa, strikes a perfect balance between modern luxury and organic textures—think canvas, thatch, and handcrafted furnishings that echo the wilderness beyond.
At the heart of the camp, the main lodge beckons with inviting lounges, a floodplain-facing swimming pool, and an outdoor fireplace where guests gather to trade safari stories under a blanket of stars. Dining is an experience in itself, with a live cooking station featuring a wood-fired pizza oven, turning meals into lively, communal affairs.
As part of Ker & Downey Botswana’s esteemed portfolio—a pioneer in luxury safaris since 1968—Kanana upholds a tradition of excellence. Sustainability is woven into every detail, from its 100% solar-powered operations to its commitment to supporting local communities. Whether casting a line for tigerfish, drifting through lily-covered lagoons, or simply soaking in the symphony of the wild from the Sleep Out Deck, guests leave with more than memories—they carry the soul of the Delta with them.
Kanana is not just a destination; it’s an ode to Africa’s untamed beauty, redefined for the modern explorer.
