Shakawe River Lodge lies 20km from the Namibian border and 380km from Maun making it an ideal stop for self-drivers. This beautifully refurbished and air-conditioned Lodge overlooks the Panhandle’s key river system: the Okavango River and the focus is very much on river based activities with fishing and birding activities. Day trips to Tsodilo Hills, to see the ancient bushman paintings can be arranged and game viewing across the border at Mahangu National Park.

Shakawe River Lodge is a classic panhandle lodge and as this this is not a big game safari experience, instead this lodge offers a classic deep water delta experience and excellent boating, fishing and birding opportunities. This is a very comfortable lodge, which embraces the modern touches of air conditioning in rooms as well as catering for those preferring to camp or stay in the onsite tented accommodation.

Shakawe River Lodge consists of 10 spacious suites. Three are King sized double-bedded configuration and seven are twin-bedded, each enjoys private decks from which to enjoy the birdlife and peaceful riverside setting. A honeymoon suite in a secluded location complete with al fresco shower, extended private deck and day bed for relaxing. Each rooms has satellite television and air conditioning.

The stylish and relaxed central area features a swimming pool and deck for relaxation, complete with comfortable day beds and loungers. The lounge, bar, dining and deck section all have fabulous views of the Okavango River.

For those keen on fishing, the lodge offers guided motorboat excursions into the Panhandle where novice and experienced anglers alike will enjoy the fun of pitting their wits against some of the Okavango’s most exciting species including bream, the unpredictable Tiger fish and bottom-dwelling Barbel Catfish. Five well-equipped boats are dedicated to angling helmed by experienced Panhandle river guides. Birdwatching on guided, boating activities offer the possibility of seeing the rare Pel’s Fishing Owl and other aquatic species including Herons, Storks and the colourful Narina Trogon.

Shakawe River Lodge organises two very different day-long excursions. The first is to the mystical and spiritual Tsodilo Hills with a professional guide knowledgeable of the history and meaning of the many pieces of rock art and other ancient artefacts to be found. It is worth noting this is a full long day out. The second is a safari into Namibia’s Mahangu National Park, which is just over the border. A remote and very quiet Park reminiscent of the Okavango Delta, it is home to some of Africa’s big game animals including Elephant, Lion, Leopard and even Wild Dog to be found. A great mixture of antelope may also be seen including dryland species: Roan and Sable, Impala, Kudu, Tsessebe and perhaps even the aquatic Sitatunga.

Shakawe River Lodge also offers campsites to self-drives, with or without pre-erected tents. Four dome tents on private decks with twin beds and comfortable bedding have exclusive ablution facilities while ten shady campsites are available under the shading, with eight overlooking the clear, crystal waters of the Okavango River. Each site has a braai facility including a grid and a washing up basin with cold running water, electrical connections at each site. Clean shared ablutions are available with hot and cold running water. Separate bar and small restaurant at the campsite offering light and basic meals

Access by road is easy and for those wishing to fly in, Shakawe International Airport boasts a tarred airstrip and facilities for customs and immigration (prior arrangement required).