Delta island sanctum
Elevated timber walkways wind through the ebony canopy, connecting open-air thatched lounges to a sunken boma firepit over the delta.
Where it shines
Remarkable
Suites shaped like traditional Bayei bamboo fishing baskets, constructed from railway sleepers and topped with shaggy thatch.
Remarkable
Private butler teams, personalized water safaris, complimentary professional camera gear, and climate-controlled beds overlooking the delta.
Remarkable
Silent mokoro dugout canoe excursions and custom boat safaris tracking rare aquatic sitatunga across Okavango papyrus channels.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Surrounding papyrus channels and open waterways host rare aquatic sitatunga, bathing elephants, and pods of hippos around the island.
The rooms
Canvas suites evoke woven fishing baskets, featuring timber decks with private plunge pools, copper soaking tubs, and headboard cooling over king beds.
Massage and plunge pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Dedicated therapists set up massage tables on your private deck, looking out across the surrounding delta channels.
At the table
Communal meals take place at a live-edge timber table beneath woven basket lights, with elephants frequently passing the deck.
How it began
Founders Dereck and Beverly Joubert designed the camp entirely from salvaged railway sleepers and recycled materials to honor Bayei fishing traditions.
Stay here
Sitatunga Private Island
See rooms and prices on the hotel's own website.
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Okavango Delta
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.