Mapula Lodge

Mapula Lodge - Overview

Mapula Lodge enjoys a beautiful Okavango setting, overlooking a lively lagoon in a wildlife-rich corner of the Delta. Known for varied game viewing and strong predator sightings, the camp has long occupied a prime position. It is currently undergoing a complete rebuild under Desert & Delta Safaris and is set to reopen on 1st March 2027 with 12 rooms, marking a new chapter for this well-located camp.

Mapula Lodge - Full Report

Mapula Lodge is a safari camp in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, set within a private concession along the Selinda Spillway, the channel linking the Delta with the Linyanti system. The surrounding mix of dry land, riverine forest and seasonal floodplains creates a particularly varied habitat, supporting a wide range of wildlife and birdlife typical of this part of the Okavango Delta.

Being on a private concession allows for a more flexible safari experience, including off-road driving and night drives, as well as a more exclusive atmosphere, with visitor numbers carefully limited.

Mapula has been part of the Okavango Delta safari landscape for many years, passing through different phases of ownership and management over time. While the setting has always been exceptional, the camp has not always fully reflected the strength of its location. With Desert & Delta Safaris now at the helm, we feel this superb area will finally be realised to its full potential.

Currently undergoing a full rebuild, Mapula Lodge is due to reopen on 1st March 2027 under the management of Desert & Delta Safaris, marking a significant new chapter for this well-located Okavango Delta safari camp in Botswana.

Looking ahead, the rebuilt Mapula will feature 12 safari suites, including two interleading options for families. The design is simple, contemporary and fresh, with a light, understated feel that sits comfortably within the landscape. Each suite will offer an en suite bathroom, private viewing deck and a comfortable, well-considered interior with a refreshment station, writing desk, wardrobe and cooling fans.

The main lodge areas will include a mix of covered and open-air dining spaces, a swimming pool with shaded gazebo, bar, lounge areas and a small curio shop. Evenings will naturally gather around the elevated fire pit overlooking the lagoon, while private dining can be arranged on request.

The lagoon attracts excellent birdlife, including wattled crane, carmine bee-eaters and African paradise flycatchers, making this a rewarding area for keen birders.

Game viewing is diverse and often very strong. Herds of elephant and buffalo move through the area, while lion are regularly seen. Leopard, cheetah and African wild dog are all present, with crocodile and hippo common along the waterways. The shy sitatunga may occasionally be spotted, while zebra, giraffe and a variety of antelope form part of the wider scene. Smaller predators, including serval and caracal, are also found here.

Activities focus on day and night game drives, which form the backbone of a classic Okavango Delta safari. When water levels allow, typically during the flood months, mokoro excursions and boating safaris provide a different perspective of the Delta. Walking safaris, fishing, birding and cultural visits further round out the experience.

Mapula forms part of Desert & Delta Safaris’ wider circuit, where each camp offers a distinct sense of place. At its core is a commitment to responsible tourism, reflected here through strong local partnerships, including co-ownership with the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund.

This is about more than redevelopment — it’s a considered approach focused on restoration, working closely with local communities, and ensuring the benefits of tourism are meaningfully shared.

In our experience, Desert & Delta Safaris operate some of the happiest camps in Botswana. Their teams consistently speak of feeling well supported, motivated and genuinely valued. It’s something you notice as a guest too — a positive atmosphere, a sense of pride, and a quiet, can-do attitude that shapes the overall experience in a very real way.