Sandibe Safari Lodge
Location
At Sandibe, you can experience the ever-changing miracle of the Okavango Delta on your doorstep. Sandibe Safari Lodge is set within a 270km˛ private concession bordering Moremi Game Reserve in one of the most beautiful parts of the Delta. Located near the perennial Santantadibe Channel, the lodge nestles between permanent water and grass-swept plains where herds of elephant, buffalo and topi (tsessebe) wander amid vigilant predators. Rolling plains stretch into the distance, etched with the silhouettes of palm trees, mud-castle spires of giant termite mounds and ancient Baobabs
The Lodge
The lodge, constructed according to strict environmental principles, was opened in 1998. Prior to opening, a medicine man was called in to protect Sandibe from bad spirits, sickness and fire. After a three-hour blessing, the sangoma intuited an atmosphere of protection, sensing the particularly strong presence of lion. As he left the camp, two lionesses prowled the exit, noble sentinels of CC Africa's Sandibe Safari Lodge.
Built with a commitment to "treading lightly on the earth", Sandibe's architecture evokes the earthy, organic, living forest. No trees were sacrificed in the building of the lodge; instead, cottages were built in a natural clearing. Any saplings that needed removing were carefully transplanted into the surrounding forest.
Accommpdation
Each of just eight deluxe thatched cottages is positioned to capture the presence of special trees and natural features such as a vast termite mound, a river inlet or an age-old elephant crossing point. The cottages have en suite bathrooms, open showers and private decks. The elevated game-viewing decks of each cottage overlook the Santantebi River.
Built with a commitment to "treading lightly on the earth," Sandibe's architecture evokes the earthy, organic, living forest. No trees were sacrificed in the building of the lodge; instead, cottages were built in a natural clearing. Any saplings that needed removing were carefully transplanted into the surrounding forest.
The spacious rooms are decorated in a rich fusion of ochre and tactile textiles like silk and leather, and feature woven mats, copper and rough-hewn wood. A quiet generator, solar power and absence of air-conditioners means that your comfort is ensured without interfering with the environment and the area's natural tranquillity.
The lounge and dining areas are in the heart of the camp, tucked under a soaring canopy of trees. Shaded decks slung with hammocks afford views across the watery labyrinth and grassland. Sandibe has a shaded swimming pool and well stocked curio shop. The communal areas face into the sunset. The meandering paths of the camp are those used by elephant and wildlife for hundreds of years.
Activities
Guided day and night game drives in open Land Rovers allow you to experience both the timeless delight of bird-watching and the awesome sight of great predator kills.
Night game drives are especially exciting. We venture out into the night time wilderness and explore the thrilling drama of the nocturnal world.
Interpretive bush walks are in the care of a local San (Bushman) guide. This is a rare opportunity to learn traditional bush skills like making rope from the indigenous grasses, how to construct traps, light fires using friction sticks, and how to track animals.
In addition to the usual river cruise, you can go on a mokoro (dugout canoe) trip poled by an experienced guide, who shares his knowledge of the environment. Cruising past one of the idyllic floating islands is part of the experience. Back at the lodge, bush breakfasts and elegant bush dinners are delicious highlights.
The lodge has a carefully selected collection of wildlife books, magazines and videos for the lazy hours.
