Zarafa Camp

Zarafa has four tented suites on raised decks, each with a copper bathtub, an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool. A short walk away, the Dhow Suite is a separate two-bedroom villa with its own pool, chef and staff, sleeping up to four adults or a family of five. The camp looks over the Zibadianja Lagoon, and elephant and hippo are often in view from the decks. There is an open-air gym, and spa treatments are available.

Days are built around open-vehicle drives in the early morning and late afternoon, plus night drives, guided walks with an armed guide and catch-and-release fishing for tigerfish outside January and February. Trips on the camp's pontoon boat depend on the lagoon, and the boat has been in storage while water levels are low. Lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo are the main draws. Wild dog, roan and sable are possible but less common.

Zarafa suits honeymooners, travelers marking a big occasion, and families or friends who can take the Dhow Suite for themselves. Children aged six and over are welcome, and under-12s go out on a private vehicle, which is free for families of four or more. It is one of the most expensive camps in Botswana. The best months are June to October; in the rains, animals disperse and sightings take more work.