The Dhow Suite at Zarafa
The Dhow Suite at Zarafa earns Diamond Reserve status through sheer scale, setting and service. At 210 m², it is genuinely one of Africa's largest and most elegant private suites, entirely under canvas on a foundation of century-old teak railroad ties, overlooking the Zibadianja Lagoon at the source of the famous Savute Channel. It combines a Relais & Châteaux-recognised private kitchen, its own plunge pool, private vehicle-based game drives, private boating on the lagoon, and a dedicated conservation levy supporting the Great Plains Foundation.
Two spacious bedrooms adjoin a central living area beneath the canopied canvas, each with a choice of twin or double bed configurations, mosquito netting, standing fans and over-bed air-conditioning. Every bedroom includes an open-air-style en-suite bathroom with a copper claw-foot tub, double vanities, indoor and outdoor showers and a separate flush toilet room. Executive chefs prepare dishes from the finest locally sourced ingredients, served indoors or under the stars on the suite's private deck, alongside a five-metre private swimming pool, an exclusive plunge pool and a fire pit.
The on-site Zarafa Spa offers two treatment areas for personalised therapies, alongside exercise equipment or in-room massage on request. Private vehicle game drives track lion, leopard, elephant and African wild dog, guided bush walks reveal the wilderness in miniature, and private boating — by flat-bottomed aluminium powerboat or pontoon — explores the lagoons and channels of the Zibadianja for birdwatching, fishing and sunset dining on the water. Ideal for families with up to three children, couples and honeymooners, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, and conservation-minded travellers.
At a Glance — Location: Selinda Reserve, northern Botswana, 130,000 hectares connecting the Okavango Delta to the Chobe and Savute corridors, overlooking the Zibadianja Lagoon. Accommodation: 2 bedrooms adjoining a central living area, twin or double configurations, open-air-style en-suite bathrooms with copper claw-foot tub, 210 m² / 2,260 sq ft, Relais & Châteaux recognition. Suite facilities: central lounge with bar and coffee station, 5m private pool and exclusive plunge pool, private deck with fire pit, Wi-Fi (no mobile signal). Wellness: on-site Zarafa Spa, exercise equipment, in-room massage on request. Experiences: private vehicle game drives, guided bush walks, private boating, catch-and-release bream fishing (March–December), Great Plains Young Explorers programme. Wildlife: lion, leopard, elephant, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, African wild dog, roan antelope, sable and cheetah.
Frequently asked questions.
Where is The Dhow Suite at Zarafa located?
In the Selinda Reserve, northern Botswana — 130,000 hectares connecting the Okavango Delta to the Chobe and Savute corridors, overlooking the Zibadianja Lagoon, source of the famous Savute Channel.
How many guests does The Dhow Suite at Zarafa accommodate?
Two bedrooms adjoining a central living area, twin or double bed configurations, on a fully exclusive-use basis — suited to families with up to three children, couples and small groups.
What makes The Dhow Suite at Zarafa different?
At 210 m², it is one of Africa's largest and most elegant private suites, entirely under canvas on a foundation of century-old teak railroad ties, with a Relais & Châteaux-recognised private kitchen, its own plunge pool, private vehicle and private boating on the lagoon.
What facilities are available?
Central lounge with small bar and coffee/tea station, 5m private swimming pool and exclusive plunge pool, private deck with fire pit, Wi-Fi, and access to the on-site Zarafa Spa.
How do I book The Dhow Suite at Zarafa?
Africa Compass Collection can arrange your booking at The Dhow Suite at Zarafa — whether you're a travel agent or planning directly. Use the "Request a quote" button on this page for a personalised, costed itinerary.