Pelo Camp

Pelo Camp occupies a genuinely remote position: a heart-shaped island (‘Pelo’ is Setswana for ‘heart’) within the Jao Reserve's flooded channel system, reached and explored primarily by water. It's framed as the emotional core of the Delta experience — a deliberately slow, unplugged, minimal-distraction retreat — and positioned as the most sustainable, back-to-nature camp in the reserve, best suited to travellers who want quiet, low-tech immersion rather than big-game density. The camp was recently refreshed, with updates noted in 2025.

Five eco-tents sit on raised wooden platforms overlooking the floodplains, simple and rustic in style — described as ‘barefoot luxury.’ Each has an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and shaded deck. Shared areas include a lounge, dining area, boma, a lookout deck and a swimming pool, all built to a modest, intimate scale.

Mokoro is central to the Pelo experience — framed as ‘the essence of water-based safari’ — alongside motorised boat cruises through the flooded channel system, guided island walks, seasonal game drives as water levels recede, and catch-and-release fishing for bream and tigerfish. Birding is a real strength, with more than 400 species cited including Pel's fishing owl, African jacana, malachite kingfisher and saddle-billed stork; sitatunga antelope are a noted sighting from the mokoro, alongside hippo and crocodile. Access is by water — confirm airstrip and transfer details when booking. Pelo pairs naturally with Jacana for a full water-based itinerary, or Tubu Tree for balance.

At a Glance - Property type: Remote, eco-focused, water-based camp - Rooms: 5 raised eco-tents with en-suite bathrooms and outdoor showers - Best time: June–October for peak floods; available year-round - Minimum age: 13+ for all activities; guests aged 13–16 must share accommodation with an adult - Key activities: Mokoro, motorised boat cruises, guided island walks, seasonal game drives and catch-and-release fishing, scenic helicopter flights - Facilities: Lounge, dining area, boma, lookout deck, swimming pool - Power: 100% solar - Typical inclusions: Accommodation, meals, twice-daily activities, park fees, laundry and local beverages