Atzaró Group and African Bush Camps have announced the much-anticipated reopening of Atzaró Okavango, a sanctuary of refined luxury and untamed wilderness in the heart of the Okavango Delta.
The reopening follows the camp’s forced suspension of operations on the 28th of June this year amid a legal tussle with one of its competitors over the lease of the NG32 Zone 3 area where its situated.
“Dear Friends, it is with immense relief and gratitude that I share the long-awaited news, the re-opening of Atzaró Okavango Camp. We are thrilled to welcome you back to Atzaró Okavango, where the extraordinary wildlife experience and unparalleled hospitality await,” its founder and CEO, Beks Ndlovu said.
Co-created by visionaries of the Atzaró Group and Beks Ndlovu, Atzaró Okavango represents a seamless blend of conservation and opulence, offering a rejuvenated escape amidst Botswana’s iconic landscape.
Inspired by the pristine beauty of the Delta and Africa’s rich cultural tapestry, Atzaró Okavango stands as a living homage to tribal art and craftsmanship. The lodge’s main area is adorned with exquisite artwork from various African countries, including Congo, Benin, and Ethiopia, inviting guests to explore the continent’s vibrant stories and traditions. The African artwork and decorations pay homage to the region’s cultural heritage, showcasing celebratory dance masks and pieces that symbolize tribe unity and rites of passage.
Designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, Atzaró Okavango features expansive spaces and natural materials such as wood, woven decor, leather, and canvas. The lodge’s open- plan layout, complemented by a palette of greens, blues, and golds, ensures an immersive experience that flows seamlessly into the surrounding wilderness.
The tearoom and wine cellar offer an intimate dining experience and can be transformed into a private dining area upon request.
The design prioritizes sustainability, using termite-resistant wood and materials that do not impact the surrounding environment. Common areas, including the main lodge, spa, gym, gallery, boutique, observation deck, tearoom, wine tasting room, cellar, yoga, and sunset lounge, feature traditional thatched roofs. Additionally, the lodge features monolithic river stone statues at the heart of the camp, each representing a tree commonly found in the Delta, serving as a reminder to preserve these trees and respect the environment.
Accommodation at Atzaró Okavango comprises eight suites and two villas, each reflecting a commitment to luxury and sustainability. Crafted with repurposed tree roots, canvas, and natural crystal rock, these spaces feature private plunge pools and indoor and outdoor showers and baths. The villas also offer private fire pits and sky beds for unparalleled stargazing experiences. The camp is entirely off-grid, powered by a solar farm, and equipped with a biorock sewage system to ensure clean water returns to nature.
The lodge provides a host of amenities designed to enhance guests’ connection with the Delta. From a communal pool and spa to a gym with panoramic views, a yoga deck, and a tearoom overlooking the delta, every detail is crafted to elevate the guest experience. Sustainable features such as bio-rock and solar panels minimize the camp’s environmental footprint. African Bush Camps has also installed a solar-powered water pump in the nearby village of Ditshiping to supply clean water.
Guests can experience the ancestral Boma, inspired by Botswana’s cultural heritage, offering a unique setting for pre-dinner drinks, traditional nights, and unforgettable dinners under the African starlit sky. The ancestral Boma pays tribute to the custodians and five tribes of the Okavango Delta, symbolizing the fertility of the land and its people.
African bomas are cherished communal spaces used for celebration and cultural expression. Around the glow of the fire, local storytellers share captivating tales passed down through generations, while traditional dances and instruments, such as African drums, bring these narratives to life. This storytelling and dance provide a profound window into the community’s rich cultural heritage, which we love to share with fellow travelers. Journey with us to experience authentic Africa.
Atzaró Okavango is more than a destination; it is a testament to the dedication and warmth of the African Bush Camps team. Committed to authenticity and excellence, the staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and pampered throughout their stay.
Guided by seasoned experts, guests can embark on a range of exhilarating activities, from thrilling game drives and night drives to immersive walking safaris and mokoro excursions. Each adventure is designed to deepen the connection with the Delta’s diverse ecosystems.
