2 Best Hotels in Kwando Reserve, Botswana

Perched on the banks of a tributary of the fast-flowing Kwando River, this delightful camp boasts water views from every angle. Canvas and thatch chalets with claw-foot bathtubs, indoor and outdoor showers, and a lower-level lounge area with floor-to-ceiling views nestle on grassy slopes under the shade of giant jackalberry trees that are hundreds of years old. After a night spent next to one of these mighty trees, a major source of natural energy, people say you wake up rejuvenated, your body buzzing with new life. From the thatch dining and bar area, you can watch herds of elephants only yards away as they come to drink and bathe, or hippos snoozing in the sun. You might also spot a malachite kingfisher darting like a bejeweled mini-jet over the water. Go for a morning or evening game drive, track game on foot, drift along the river in a double-decker boat, or go fishing for tiger fish and bream. Terrestrial wildlife, particularly predators, is plentiful while keen birders will tick off hundreds of species in the wet summer months.

Looking out over the endless floodplains of the Kwando river, Lebala is aptly named (it means wide, open spaces) and benefits from the same fantastic wildlife arena as its sister camp, Kwando Lagoon Camp. The elevated timber and canvas tents, which were refurbished and relocated in 2025, are now generously spaced along the edge of two small tree islands, ensuring privacy and serenity. An additional pool, bar, dining and lounge area caters for the furthest three rooms, making it feel like having your own intimate, exclusive camp. After a long day in the bush, soak off the dust in your freestanding tub or indulge in the double outside shower, then wander through sliding mesh doors to your private teak deck and savor the nocturnal ambience. Marvel at the stunning endless vistas from the raised hide before embarking on a game drive; you are guaranteed to see loads of wildlife, with predator tracking a specialty, and guided walks are also possible.