As the custodians of one of Botswana’s very first safari camps the owners of Xakanaxa Camp (pronounced Ka-ka-na-ka) have gone to extraordinary lengths to preserve its original African bush camp character whilst providing guests with every comfort.

The stylish main buildings extend into the Khwai River and are set on raised platforms to maximize the views over the surrounding lagoons and islands. Constructed of local timber, reed and thatch they comprise of an elegant lounge containing a small but comprehensive library, dining room, expansive sundeck, plunge pool and sala with day bed as well as a fire-deck set under giant Jackalberry trees. The reception lounge boasts a curio shop and facilities are provided for charging videos, cameras and batteries. The camp operates on generator power but at night all lighting is supplied by gas and paraffin lanterns, giving the camp an authentic African ambience.

Bob and Flo Flaxman, ably assisted by Lettie Letsile create a camp environment in which guests experience a seamless service in the warm, friendly style for which Africa is famous. The kitchen is renowned for its traditional safari fare served with a Pan-African touch, all accompanied by excellent South African wines. Meals are generally taken around the main dining room table where tales of the day’s exciting experiences are recounted and discussed in great detail. We do also cater individually for guests wishing to dine in private. The emphasis is on discreet personal service, provided in an unobtrusive manner so as to ensure the maximum guest enjoyment. Like Bob and Flo a great number of the camp staff have been looking after guests at Xakanaxa for more than ten years.

Teas, coffees, mineral water and soft drinks as well as a wide range of alcoholic drinks are available to guests throughout the day at no extra cost (there is a Reserve List of drinks that are charged for). A full English breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner is included in the nightly rate, as are all safari activities and Park entrance fees.

Daily camp activities follow a rhythmic pattern in harmony with that of the nature that surrounds us – generally we enjoy a light breakfast of coffee, tea, fruit juices, cereals, muffins and fresh fruit just before dawn and then set of on extensive safari drives, boat or mokoro outings. Upon our return to camp three or 4 hours later its time for a full breakfast followed by lunch or alternatively, especially in the winter months, these are combined into a scrumptious brunch. A siesta is followed by high tea before we set of again on a safari activity that returns to camp about half an hour after sunset. A chance to freshen up is followed by pre-dinner cocktails and snacks, dinner and coffee and liqueurs on the fire-deck.

Xakanaxa accommodates only 24 guests in twelve classic safari tents on raised platforms set on the banks of the Khwai River, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the Xakanaxa Lagoon. Each tent is tastefully furnished with twin or double beds and en-suite facilities with shower, hand basin and ablution facilities. A water sprinkler system aids cooling in the midday heat.