Pelo Camp
The word Pelo in Setswana means ‘heart’ – a fitting name inspired by the distinct heart-shaped island on which the camp is built in the heart of the Jao Concession. This is the Delta as it is meant to be enjoyed – remote, genuine, and wild.
Pelo Camp’s main area comprises a tented dining area and lounge situated under impressive wild date palms, jackalberry and Natal mahogany trees while the inviting plunge pool allows for refreshing dips in the midday heat. There is also an outdoor boma area and a raised lookout deck perfect for sundowners. The five intimate guest tents, complete with a covered front veranda, have en-suite bathrooms with both an indoor and outdoor shower. The camp’s footprint is light allowing unobtrusive wildlife viewing and a sense of being at one with nature.
Highlights
- Set in one of the most beautiful ecosystems in the world, Pelo is an eco-friendly camp
- Provides a classic, traditional Okavango experience for the adventurous traveller
- A tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the modern world
This intimate camp’s five spacious tents look out over the surrounding water. Each tent has an en suite bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers.
Given Pelo Camp’s situation on an island surrounded by permanent water, activities focus on water activities as well as walking.
Mokoro excursions
Glide seamlessly along the waterways of Pelo in a mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe) and take in the abundance of water-loving wildlife and birds.
Boating
Trips in a 12-seater boat allow for good wildlife viewing in the channels of the Delta further away. Lookout for red lechwe and elephant and maybe even catch a glimpse of spotted-necked otter.
Nature walks
Take a walk on one of a number of low sandy islands and learn about the River Bushman way of life in this area.
Fishing
Fishing with a limited supply of basic equipment (spinner rods and a small range of lures) is on offer seasonally on a catch-and-release basis.
LOCATION
In the Jao Concession, on an island north of Jacana Camp, western Okavango Delta. Bordering the Moremi Game Reserve.
HABITAT AND WILDLIFE
Jao Concession
Situated in the very heart of the wetlands of the Okavango Delta, the 60 000-hectare (150 000-acre) Jao Concession embodies all the magic and mystique of Botswana with vegetation that varies from permanent swamps to dry land. In the east, the Jao Flats boast water channels that cut their way through the papyrus and reed beds, providing the perfect environment for wildlife. Beautiful lush palm islands dot the water. Around the Jao Flats spectacular herds of red lechwe are followed by the primary predators – lion and leopard. Other game includes, tsessebe, elephant, hippo and crocodile. Sitatunga are seen occasionally, and sightings of spotted-necked otter are regular. Birding is exceptional in the Jao Concession, with Vulnerable wattled crane, slaty egret, rosy-throated longclaw, Pel’s fishing-owl, and lesser jacana to be seen in the wetter areas. Other exciting species include swamp nightjar and brown firefinch.
Game Viewing
This is one of the most spectacular areas of the Okavango Delta with shallow floodplains, hidden lagoons and quiet waterways dotted with small riverine forested and palm islands waiting to be explored. This is a remote Okavango water camp; wildlife to be seen include elephant, hippo, lechwe, reed buck, sitatunga and crocodiles, to name a few. Spectacular birding, with some 450 species recorded.
CAMP DESIGN AND FACILITIES
- Main area comprising of lounge and dining area.
- Pool in main area.
- Traditional boma for dining under the starts.
- Camp fire.
- Sunset and lookout deck.
- During winter months knee blankets are provided during dinner.
ACCOMMODATION
Number of Tents
This camp can accommodate 10 guests in 5 units.
Unit Description
- Meru-style safari tents, with sandy pathways on the ground.
- En-suite facilities comprising of a flush toilet, indoor and outdoor shower, single vanity, tea and coffee making facilities, yoga mat and resistance bands and electronic safe.
- Ceiling fans provided in each of the rooms.
- During winter months hot water bottles, extra blankets and throws are provided.
- Bathrobes and kikois, shower gel, hand and body wash, shampoo and conditioner, lotion, insect spray, shower caps, vanity kit, sewing kit, umbrellas, mosquito repellent spray and mosquito coils are supplied in each tent.
ELECTRICITY AND WATER
- 100% solar powered (solar panels and inverters provide electricity and hot water from solar tube geysers).
- 220V multi-plug adaptor charging facilities for mobile devices. Additional charging facilities (available on request) for the use of sleep apnoea machines (guests to provide own device, spare batteries, charging unit and adaptors).
EXAMPLE OF A TYPICAL DAY
Morning wake-up and activity times vary according to the seasons, activities on offer and wildlife sightings.
- Early morning wake-up call.
- Light breakfast before departing on the morning activity.
- Return to camp for a meal and rest period.
- Meet for afternoon tea before departing on the activity.
- Return to camp – freshen up or meet for drinks, followed by dinner thereafter, perhaps a nightcap.
CHILD POLICY
- Children of 13 years and older are accommodated and partake in activities with all other guests.
- Children between 13 and 16 years must share with an adult/s in the same room.
- The minimum age for all activities is 13 years.
LAUNDRY FACILITIES
Laundry services are provided on a daily basis (weather permitting) and included on the Fully Inclusive (FI) rate basis. The camp staff will not wash underwear due to prevailing local traditions and therefore, washing detergent is supplied in each room for you to wash your own underwear.
RATE BASIS
Fully Inclusive– includes accommodation, all meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, all local drinks and laundry. Excluded from the rate are premium imported brands and champagne, gratuities, curio purchases and any other items of a personal nature.
For more information on Pelo Camp click HERE.