Mbamba is a classic tented camp of old (but chic and very new!). Brought to you by the Uncharted Africa team in the private NG12 concession in the northern Okavango Delta. This area offers superb game viewing year round. Just north of the iconic Vumbura and Duba Plains, and adjoining the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta. Here the wildlife action never stops. Every bit of a Ralph Bousfield camp (Uncharted Africa), it offers a blend of remarkable guided wilderness experiences. And a classic safari style.
This private concession is home to an impressive density and variety of wildlife. Including rare and sought after species. The area around the camp is known for its reliable predator viewing. Especially for observing endangered African wild dogs and lions. Where you’ll instantly be immersed in the Okavango Delta’s true wonder. With a variety of land and water based activities. And some of the best safari guides in the business. You can look forward to a rewarding wildlife experience.
The camp sits in the shade of a stand of large leadwood trees. The main mess area at Mbamba is a delight with its draped fabric and collections of ancient artifacts. Relax in the two lounges where you can spend your time perusing the cabinets. Grabbing a drink from the well stocked drinks cabinet. Read a book from the small library or relax around the camp swimming pool. A book, binos, and an ice cold drink are a prerequisite. Meals are served family style at the long table. Dine under the stars or under canvas, followed by stargazing around the fire pit before saying goodnight.
Designed in the iconic Ralph Bousfield vintage safari style, Mbamba offers 12 x stylish canvas tents. There are 4 x double, 6 x twin and 2 x family units. Carefully positioned under the shade of an impressive stand of large leadwood trees. The cool tents are on slightly raised wooden decks. Revel in plush fabrics, mahogany sideboards, Persian rugs, and romantic four poster beds. All infused with a yesteryear charm. Each tent offers spacious en-suite bathrooms with indoor showers. And a private veranda that sits elegantly under the bows of the trees to offer respite from the heat. And stunning views of the Okavango Delta.
There is 24 hour electricity in all guest tents (100% solar powered). They have an over bed cooling system, mosquito net, and standing fan.
Mbamba Activities
The wildlife viewing action never stops around Mbamba. With a variety of land and water based game viewing activities to get you closer to the action. Showcasing the best of the Okavango Delta. The varied habitat is also exceptional in its ability to sustain a diversity of wildlife. Including rare and sought after species. It is a top denning area for wild dogs. You can frequently observe their hunting and pack behavior near camp. This area also has a very high concentration of lions. Where prides hunt big prey like buffalo that arrive in large herds and huge hippos!
The guiding team at Mbamba are some of the best in the business. Trained by the safari legend Ralph Bousfield. Their knowledge and understanding of this area is guaranteed to get you closer to the action. And will give you a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Game drives
Game drive through this rich habitat, binos at the ready. In search of lion, wild dog, leopard, cheetah, elephant, sable, and the rare sitatunga antelope. Head out just before dark on a night drive. To observe the nocturnal animals in action using a high voltage red filter spotlight. Ensuring you’ll be able to see just what makes this area tick in the dark.
Wild Dog pack
Boating or Mokoro safari
Explore the Delta waterways on a boat or traditional mokoro safari. Viewing the wildlife at eye level. Gliding through the lily filled channels. Please note that water activities are subject to water levels. They may be limited in low water season from October to January.
Mokoro safariNile Crocodile
Birding Safari
The birdlife in this region is equally remarkable, with more than 350 species recorded in the region. Including the endangered wattled crane, black crake, Hottentot teal, carmine bee-eaters, and the Pel’s fishing owl. The distinctive cry of the African fish eagle serves as the background music for many a game drive. As twitchers tick dozens of new species off their life list.
Wattled Crane
Helicopter Thrills
For a different perspective get a bird’s eye view over this beautiful wetland on a helicopter flight. This is at an additional cost. Or take a visit to the Tsodilo Hills, a fascinating World Heritage Site. It is just 30 minutes from camp by helicopter. With over 4,500 individual Bushmen paintings, Tsodilo is a treasure trove of ancient rock art. With some of the highest concentrations in the world dating back between 800 and 1300 AD.
When to Visit Mbamba
Mbamba in the Okavango Delta is open year round, with peak season being between April and October. During these dry winter months, water from the Angolan highlands arrives and water levels in the Delta are high. Offering the best conditions for mokoro and boat activities. And exceptional game viewing opportunities as wildlife tries to find any water from the surrounding dry areas. The mild daytime temperatures and clear skies make it the ideal time to visit the Delta.
In October, the landscape transforms into a lush green paradise as the ‘Green’ season begins. Heralded by afternoon thunderstorms and rising temperatures. While water levels start to recede, Mbamba’s location ensures access to perennial channels for mokoro and boat safaris most of the year. Summer months also bring prime bird watching opportunities. Migrants from central Africa and Europe fill the bush with their melodious songs.
Namibia: Safarihoek Lodge (and Safari House), Etosha Mountain Lodge, Kwessi Dunes, and Hoanib Valley Camp
It excludes Natural Selections Shipwreck Lodge in Namibia and its South African properties.
Mbamba rates per night
1-5 Night Rate
6+ Night Rate
Per person sharing
Single Supplement
Per person sharing
Single Supplement
Green Season: 10th January – 31st March 2025
Closed
Shoulder Season: 1st – 30th April 2025
Shoulder Season: 1st – 31st May 2025
$2,795
$1,120
$2,516
$1,010
High Season: 1st June – 30th June 2025
$3,295
$1,320
$3,130
$1,255
Peak Season: 1st July – 31st August 2025
$2,966
$1,190
High Season: 1st September – 31st October 2025
$3,695
$1,480
$3,510
$1,405
Shoulder Season: 1st November – 19th December 2025
$1,265
$510
$1,139
$460
High Season: 20th December 2025 – 9th January 2026
$3,295
$1,320
$2,966
$1,190
Long stay rates exclude Okavango Spirit, Planet Baobab, and Private Mobiles in Botswana. However, any nights booked at these properties will qualify towards the minimum night stay.
Our recommendation: Mbamba and Sable Alley allows you to enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Khwai Private Reserve with the delights of the northern parts of the Okavango Delta.
Rates Include: Accommodation, all meals, beverages, guest laundry, daily activities, expert guiding, park entry fees, and VAT. Rates Exclude: Premium brand drinks, gratuities, flights, and your fully comprehensive personal travel insurance. There is also a nightly Conservation, Community & Reserve Fee.
Book by 31st January 2025. Valid for travel until 31st December 2025 (all year, even peak season).
Mbamba only opens in April 2025.
Stay 6, pay 4
Book 3 nights at Mbamba in combination with a minimum of 3 nights at Mokolwane and get one complimentary night at each camp on us.
Valid for travel until 31st December 2025. Excluding Peak Season: 1st July until 31st August 2025. In peak season you get the free arrival helicopter using the complimentary access to Mokolwane offer.
Lebala Camp – accommodation situated in the Linyanti area is renowned for excellent wild dog sightings and other predators and are able to do night game drives
In the heart of the Okavango Delta, on a diverse, wildlife-rich private concession, is andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, luxury accommodation – honeymoon
