Khwai Community Concession

Khwai sits in a pretty special spot within the greater Okavango Delta system. This 3,800 km² concession is positioned right on the northeastern edge of the delta, where the famous Khwai River forms a natural boundary with Moremi Game Reserve. What makes this location truly remarkable is that there are no fences anywhere - animals move freely between Khwai, Moremi, and even Chobe National Park to the north.

The Khwai River acts as the area's lifeline, creating a natural wildlife corridor that connects these major protected areas. During the dry months from April to October, you'll see this river become an absolute magnet for game. Thousands of elephants and buffalo congregate along its banks, followed closely by the predators that depend on them.

The terrain here shifts dramatically within just a few kilometers. You'll find dense mopane woodlands giving way to riverine forests, then opening up into seasonal floodplains dotted with lagoons and channels. This diversity creates different micro-environments that support an incredible range of species.

What we love about Khwai's position is how it offers the best of both worlds. You get the pristine wilderness experience of being connected to Moremi's famous game areas, but with the added benefits of night drives and walking safaris that aren't permitted inside the national park itself. The community-managed model here also means your visit directly supports local conservation efforts by the Khwai Village community.

The Khwai Concession sits perfectly positioned between Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park, creating one of Botswana's most important wildlife corridors. With no fences restricting movement, animals flow freely across this 1,900 square kilometer area, following ancient migration routes between the Okavango Delta and the broader ecosystem.

The Khwai River forms the natural border with Moremi and acts as a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry months from May to October. You'll find large herds of elephants and buffalo gathering along the riverbanks, while lions seek shade in the surrounding woodlands. The diverse landscape - from marshy wetlands to dry mopane forests - supports an incredible variety of species.

Khwai delivers exceptional Big Five encounters, but it's particularly renowned for its wild dog and cheetah sightings. The open terrain makes spotting these endangered predators easier than in many other locations. Leopards are regularly seen, often draped across fever trees near the river.

The birdlife is equally impressive, with around 450 species recorded across northern Botswana. Rare sightings include Wattled Cranes, Pel's Fishing Owls, and Western Banded Snake-Eagles. Water-adapted antelope like red lechwe graze the riverbanks, while night drives (permitted in the concession) reveal nocturnal species like serval and pangolin.

The Khwai Concession sits in one of Botswana's most wildlife-rich areas, wedged between Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. This community-owned conservancy offers some excellent camp options, each with its own character and strengths.

Sango Safari Camp brings an authentic edge to your stay with its connection to the local Sango family, the area's original inhabitants who now part-own the camp. The 6 Meru style tents accommodate 12 guests and feature those classic open-air bucket showers that really capture the old safari spirit. It's positioned right on Khwai village's outskirts, giving you genuine cultural insights alongside your game viewing.

For families, Machaba Camp is our top pick. With 8 double tents plus 2 family tents, it can host up to 24 guests and includes a swimming pool – always appreciated after dusty game drives. The camp strikes a nice balance between eco-consciousness and comfort, deliberately skipping air conditioning to minimize environmental impact while maintaining that romantic canvas tent atmosphere.

Hyena Pan offers exceptional value for serious wildlife enthusiasts. Natural Selection operates this 8 tent camp, which pumps water to attract animals during dry months. The elevated hide provides fantastic photography opportunities, and you're perfectly positioned between the Khwai River and both major reserves.

Khwai Leadwood part of African Bush Camps, overlooks a scenic lagoon and delivers classic tented camp luxury with reliable service. All camps offer year-round access via quick flights to Khwai airstrip, putting you straight into some of Africa's best game viewing territory.

Khwai's 180,000 hectare concession offers something most national parks cannot; complete freedom to explore. While places like Moremi Game Reserve next door restrict night drives and walking safaris, Khwai lets you experience the bush in ways that feel genuinely wild.

Game drives here go beyond the usual. You can venture off-road to follow animal tracks, get closer to sightings, and stay with interesting wildlife encounters as long as you want. During the dry months, massive elephant herds gather along the Khwai River, creating some of the most dramatic viewing opportunities in Botswana.

Night drives open up a completely different world. This is when you might spot the elusive aardvark, pangolin, or aardwolf – creatures you'll never see during daylight hours. The sounds and atmosphere after dark transform your understanding of the African bush entirely.

Mokoro excursions along the Khwai River (available April - October when water levels are high) offer something magical – an eye-level view of wildlife. Gliding silently through the channels, you'll watch elephants drinking just meters away, completely unbothered by your presence. The gentle splash of your guide's pole and the hush of water create a profound sense of tranquility.

Boat cruises on the river provide excellent bird watching opportunities, especially during the wet season when migratory species arrive. The riverine forest and seasonal waterholes create diverse habitats that attract an incredible variety of wildlife.

Walking Safaris get you intimately connected with the smaller details of the bush, such as animal tracks, medicinal plants, insects, and the intricate web of life that vehicles simply pass by. Your guide will show you things you'd never notice otherwise.

The cultural visits to Khwai Village offer insight into the BaBukakhwe community and how this conservation model directly benefits local people. It's fascinating to understand how the transition from hunting concession to ecotourism has created sustainable livelihoods while protecting wildlife.

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