Mention Botswana and you’ll likely conjure up an image of the Okavango Delta with its myriad shimmering waterways and lagoons.  Don’t stop there though, because Botswana has so much more to offer.   At the other end of the spectrum are the wilds of the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pans which form a startling contrast to the Delta’s verdant wetlands.

It’s on the Makgadikgadi Pans, once an ancient super lake, that you’ll find Jack’s Camp – one of the country’s most iconic lodges.  Legendary in safari circles, it’s an oasis of elegant glamour amid the glittering salt pans.   Ten guest tents, interiors decked in 1940s style, gaze over the wilderness;  the mess tent doubles as a fascinating museum, the tea tent looks as though it’s come straight from a film set, and the view from the swimming pool pavilion rivals that of any beach.

The activities on offer set it apart too.  Highlights of my recent (second) visit include an enchanting morning with a meerkat colony – several individuals quite happy to use a human shoulder or knee to gain extra height when on sentry duty.

Quad biking across the pans at sunset was magnificent, as was the private sundowner bar set up on the edge of ‘the big nothing’ – a gin and tonic has never tasted so good.

Horses and bikes offer the freedom to explore deep into the pans, while a walk with the San Bushman is a cultural delight.

The pièce de résistance though was a night drive on which not one, but two, aardvarks made an appearance.  It’s just as well the Aardvark Safaris’ team isn’t as elusive as these shy animals after which we’re named – even our guide hadn’t spotted one for three months.

Just a note to add is that Jack’s Camp is closing for refurbishment between October 2019 and April 2020.  Don’t worry though, as Jack’s Migration Camp will be open (for the duration) just down the road and will operate in exactly the same way.  Alternatively you could choose to stay at sister property Camp Kalahari, which is wonderful in its own right, has the same stylish feel and offers the same activities. We’ll keep you posted on the refurbished and rebuilt Jack’s which promises to retain the unique style but in a larger and more resplendent way.

Any questions on Jack’s Camp?

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What next?

We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris.  If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just send us an email or give us a call.

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