Mapula

Mapula is Desert & Delta Safaris' newest addition to its Okavango portfolio, opening 1 March 2027 on a private island where the Selinda Spillway begins its journey from the Delta into the Linyanti Wetlands. The concession sits in a rare transition zone between wetland and woodland, with mopane forest opening onto floodplains, palm islands rising from marshy channels, and grassland broken by stands of acacia. That mix of habitats supports some of the highest wildlife densities anywhere in the Delta.

The lodge will offer 12 safari suites, two of which can interlead for families, each with an en-suite bathroom, private viewing deck and a small refreshment station. Main areas include covered and open-air dining, an elevated fire pit, a swimming pool with gazebo, a bar, curio shop and lounge areas, connected by the same understated, low-impact design ethos that runs through the rest of the Desert & Delta collection.

Mapula is the first lodge in the company's Okavango circuit to offer the full range of Desert & Delta activities year-round — day and night game drives, seasonal motorboat safaris, mokoro excursions, walking safaris, fishing, birding and cultural excursions, alongside optional specialist guiding, private activities and helicopter transfers. The property is co-owned with the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund, reflecting Desert & Delta's broader commitment to citizen ownership and participation in tourism.

<strong>At a Glance</strong> - Rooms: 12 safari suites (2 interleading for families) + 1 separate guide room - Max guests: 24 - Children: 6 years and older - Key activities: Game drives (day & night), motorboat safaris (seasonal), mokoro, walking safaris, fishing, birding, cultural excursions, helicopter transfers - Facilities: Covered/open-air dining, private dining on request, fire pit, pool with gazebo, bar, curio shop, daily laundry - Power/Wi-Fi: In-room Wi-Fi via satellite only - Status: Opening 1 March 2027 — bookings open