San Camp

Set on the edge of the vast Ntwetwe salt pan (an open space the size of Switzerland) San Camp has a wonderful sense of space and freedom. Added to that are the projects the property has in place to support environmental and community initiatives. One such project is aimed at expanding large mammal migration routes between northern Botswana and Makgadikgadi National Park and the Kalahari Desert. Another works with children from disadvantaged backgrounds, teaching them respect for the environment.

This is the sister camp to Jack’s Camp in the same region and shares the focus on the environment, archaeology and interaction with the bushmen as the game is very sparse here for most of the year. There are some interesting creatures still to observe here, such as a nearby colony of habituated meerkats. When conditions are right, guests can take expeditions on the salt-pans by quad bike exploring archaeological sites and ancient fossil beds. Guiding is often with the bushmen who teach us their amazing survival techniques in this difficult environment.

The camp itself mirrors the simplicity and open spaces of the pans. Six elegant spacious pavilion style tents sit each under a cluster of tall palms. Period style pieces adorn the interiors with lovely wooden chests, boxes and brass fittings about. Bathrooms are equipped with bucket showers and a flush toilet. The rooms are lit by the warm glow of old-fashioned spirit lamps.

The main communal areas include a tea tent, dining area and small museum.