African safaris have fired the imagination for generations. From Hollywood films to coffee table books brimming with wild animals and sweeping plains — the image of the safari is almost mythical. Yet behind the romance lies a modern-day reality: the need for travel experiences that are both transformative and sustainable.
For many travellers, a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures, experience nature in its purest form, and return briefly to a time when animals ruled the Earth. Botswana stands at the forefront of this vision. Thanks to decades of commitment to conservation and the development of a national ecotourism certification system, the country offers a rare combination of authentic experience and environmental consciousness. In a world where travellers are increasingly seeking sustainable and meaningful journeys, Botswana stands out as a pioneer in responsible tourism. With national policies focused on small-scale luxury and ecotourism certification, the country has become one of the most sought-after safari destinations in the world.
At a time when mass tourism puts fragile ecosystems under pressure, Botswana consciously chooses a different path: fewer visitors, more experience.
Botswana’s allure lies not only in its pristine landscapes and abundance of wildlife but also in the unique synergy between conservation and high-end hospitality. At a time when mass tourism strains delicate ecosystems, Botswana deliberately takes a different route: fewer guests, more meaningful engagement. Belmond, a globally renowned provider of luxury travel experiences, is a leader in the country. With a portfolio of iconic properties, the company has earned a reputation for preserving heritage locations while maintaining a deep-rooted commitment to local communities. In Botswana, Belmond operates two safari resorts that set a high bar for both ecological integrity and exclusive hospitality.
In the heart of the vast, water-rich Okavango Delta lies Belmond Eagle Island Lodge. Once a base for explorers, it is now a prime example of eco-luxury with twelve spacious tents, each equipped with a private plunge pool, panoramic views, and interiors crafted from locally sourced materials. The lodge has been entirely rebuilt using sustainable wood and thatch, operates on solar energy, and employs thermodynamic geysers. Drinking water is sourced and purified locally, then made available to guests through refill stations. Visitors can explore the area in a mokoro — a traditional canoe — guided by locals who share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and cultural history. A helicopter flight over the delta provides a breathtaking view of the ecosystem and its abundant wildlife — from hippos to rhinos.
Elephants at your breakfast table
For those seeking a more land-based adventure, Savute Elephant Lodge, in Chobe National Park, offers an impressive alternative. This region is home to a third of Africa’s elephant population, and the lodge provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close — sometimes even from the comfort of your own terrace.
In addition to luxurious accommodation featuring four-poster beds, air conditioning, and artisanal touches from the region, the lodge is distinguished by its innovative environmental technologies. One standout is the biogas digester, which converts organic waste into compost for local farming projects. What makes this location unique is how circular principles deliver tangible outcomes — from ecosystem preservation to community empowerment.
A safari in Botswana is much more than a bucket-list experience.
What Belmond has achieved in Botswana is emblematic of a broader shift within the luxury travel industry: the pursuit of a balance between exclusivity, authenticity, and ecological responsibility. Through more than 300 global initiatives under the motto Think Global, Act Local, the brand invests in communities and ecosystems that are essential to preserving their destinations. A safari in Botswana is much more than a tick-box adventure — it’s a strategic choice for travellers who want to contribute to conservation, connection, and change — without compromising on comfort or quality.
For those wishing to experience both the urban elegance of Cape Town and the untamed wilderness of Botswana, Belmond offers combination journeys. These packages pair a stay at Mount Nelson Hotel with safari adventures at Belmond’s lodges in Botswana, including domestic flights and exclusive experiences. Since its opening in 1899, the Mount Nelson — affectionately known as “The Nellie” — has been recognised as one of Cape Town’s most prestigious hotels. Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, this iconic pink property blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. With 198 individually designed rooms and suites, lush gardens, an award-winning spa, and its famed afternoon tea ritual, it serves as a tranquil haven in the heart of the city.
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