A maze of sparkling lagoons, meandering channels and overgrown islands teeming with wildlife, Botswana’s Okavango Delta lies at the heart of the Kalahari Desert, and it was the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site that provided the central inspiration for an extensive refurbishment of Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge.
The rejuvenation of Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge was part of an investment of ZAR 230m in a number of safari camps and lodges owned by leading experiential travel company, andBeyond.
The central andBeyond Sandibe’s brand new look is inspired directly by nature – the weaver-bird’s nest building habits and the pangolin’s body armour of folded plates or scales informing the structure of the building itself.
Using organic materials such as wood to execute the structural design and installing the latest in alternative energy sources, the building work continues in line with andBeyond’s core ethos of ‘Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, Care of the People’.
“The innovative design of andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is driven by nature and reflects the sustainable footprint of the lodge while remaining warm and intimate,” explains Joss Kent, andBeyond CEO.
Twelve new suites include one family unit made up of two interconnecting suites, which will cater for families and small groups. Serene and organic, the new suites will be raised among trees, with guests able to look out over the winding channels and lush floodplains of the Delta from their elevated surroundings.
Boasting a private plunge pool, the nest-like suites will be uncluttered and elegant, becoming private cocoons at night when the fireplaces bring warmth and light in the winter months.
King-sized beds look out over the spectacular Delta views, while outdoor showers allow for an even greater connection between guests and this beautiful vista.
The interiors will celebrate the very best of Botswana craft, with natural rusty tones, copper-clad mekoro, sculpted wooden tables and intricate baskets.
Situated on a private concession, andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge has exclusive traversing rights over 22,500 hectares of wildlife land situated in one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.
andBeyond Sandibe provides one of the best wildlife experiences in the Delta, offering day and night safaris, bush walks and drives to view iconic species, including the giant horned kudu, secretary birds, cheetah, wild dog, elephant, antelope, hippo and giraffe.
