Camp Xakanaxa

Camp Xakanaxa (pronounced ka-ka-na-ka) sits on the Khwai River at Xakanaxa Lagoon, inside Moremi Game Reserve — one of the few camps in the country that can offer genuine land and water safari experiences year-round from a single base. It's also one of the last Botswana camps still built in the classic all-canvas tented style, with 11 Meru-style luxury tents and one two-bedroom family tent arranged around the lagoon's edge.

The main buildings extend out over the Khwai River on raised platforms, built from local timber, reed and thatch, and include a small library, sundeck, plunge pool and a fire deck that stretches over the water — a favourite spot for evening drinks. A larger pool with an elevated sun deck sits in the camp's grounds.

Guests choose between morning and afternoon game drives through riverine forest, open savannah and seasonal floodplains, or exploring the same landscape by boat — a combination that consistently delivers strong sightings of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, hippo and lechwe. Birding is particularly strong in spring and summer during the migrant breeding season, and all activities are led by licensed guides with deep knowledge of the reserve.

At a Glance - Rooms: 11 twin Meru-style tents + 1 Family tent (2 bedrooms) + 1 guide tent - Max guests: 24 - Children: 6 years and older - Key activities: Guided game drives, motorised boat safaris, birding - Facilities: Large pool + plunge pool, two fire decks over the river, self-service bar, curio shop, daily laundry, library - Power/Wi-Fi: No Wi-Fi (guest laptop with basic internet in library); generator power day/evening, inverted DC lighting overnight