NOKANYANA
Set at the junction of the Khwai and Mababe Rivers, Nokanyana Lodge puts you in the heart of Botswana’s game-viewing paradise. Newly rebuilt, this is a Lodge for those who want to see big game and experience the thrill of the wild. From the deck, you might spot elephants, giraffes, or even a rare leopard lounging in a tree. On game drives, there’s a good chance of seeing lions, painted wolves (African wild dogs), and more—this is nature’s stage, and the show never ends.
Unlike East Africa’s crowded safaris or rigid time slots in South Africa, Nokanyana’s private traversing in the Mababe River Private Reserve offers a more intimate and patient experience. You can linger at sightings, observing the real behavior of animals without jockeying for position. With access to Chobe, Khwai, Savuti, and Moremi, the lodge is also perfectly placed for day trips into some of Botswana’s most iconic reserves.
While game drives are the highlight, Nokanyana also offers mokoro trips and nature walks upon request, or you can arrange to join a walking safari at Adventure Camp Chora for a change of pace. For families, couples, or anyone looking to immerse themselves in the wild with modern comforts, Nokanyana Lodge delivers an authentic yet fun-filled Delta experience.
Itinerary Day 1
Early morning - Wake up at about 5.30am to watch the sun rise; a continental breakfast will be ready for you in the main area, or around a roaring fire. Head out at around 6am, as the cool of the morning is generally the best time to spot the animals while they are still active.
Late morning - After a few hours, stop and enjoy a hearty bush brunch. Your guide will know where to stop to make this an experience you won’t forget!
Afternoon - Continue your drive, exploring new areas and slowly heading back to Nokanyana.
High Tea - For those wishing to be out all day, a quick high tea will be a welcome break.
Evening drinks - Pre-dinner drinks and nibbles will be served around the fire and in the bar area, around 7/7.30pm.
Dinner - Gourmet three course meal freshly prepared by our chefs (7.30 or 8pm).
Itinerary Day 2
Breakfast - Wake up at about 5.30am to watch the sun rise; a continental breakfast will be ready for you in the main area, or around a roaring camp fire.
Morning Experience - Head out at around 6am, as the cool of the morning is generally the best time to spot the animals while they are still active. Return after about four hours, just before the day heats up.
Brunch - Brunch will be served on your return. But there’s no rush; if you’re captivated by watching the game, our team will work around you and keep brunch warm!
Afternoon - Time for a siesta or a cooling dip in the pool.
High tea - Around 3.30pm / 4pm.
Afternoon/ Night-time Activity - After tea, your guide will be ready to take you on your afternoon drive, or if you prefer you can wait until sunset and experience a magical night-time drive through the bush.
Evening drinks - Pre-dinner drinks and nibbles will be served around the fire and in the bar area, around 7/7.30pm.
Dinner - Gourmet three course meal freshly prepared by our chefs (7.30 or 8pm).

NEED TO KNOW
- Uninterrupted Bush Views – Stunning panoramas of the surrounding wilderness
- Exceptional Wildlife Encounters – Located in a prime game-rich area
- Spacious Accommodation – Seven Rooms & Three Family Suites
- Swimming Pool & Relaxed Main Area (The Hub) – Perfect for unwinding between adventures
- Open Year-Round – Experience Botswana’s beauty in every season
- CURIO SHOP – TRADING POST
Nokanyana: Means “little river” in the local Basarwa language.

luxury tents
luxury rooms AT A GLANCE
Crisp white linen
Rain Shower
Twin Sinks
Western Toilets
Eco-friendly toiletries (Healing Earth)
Coffee & tea making facilities
Ceiling fans
Wake-Up Calls
Housekeeping and Turndown service
Personal safe
Two three quarter beds (convert to Super Kingsize extra length). All beds have a mosquito net and an insect repellent spray is available in the rooms.
Family Units
FAMILY units AT A GLANCE
Crisp white linen
Rain Shower
Twin Sinks
Western Toilets
Eco-friendly toiletries (Healing Earth)
Coffee & tea making facilities
Ceiling fans
Wake-Up Calls
Housekeeping and Turndown service
Personal safe
Two three quarter beds (Super Kingsize extra length). Two single beds. All beds have a mosquito net and an insect repellent spray is available in the rooms.
Rates From
Low Season
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Inclusive of
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Accommodation
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Experiences
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All Meals & Drinks (Excl premium brands)
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Transfers from Airstrip
NOKANYANA FEATURES
Wifi
Is available in the reception area
The African Bush
Wildlife moves through lodge regularly. Game viewing from the comfort of your room, or whilst enjoying a dip in the pool is quite an experience.
Life on Safari
"If there was one thing I could do, it would be to go on safari once again..." – Karen Blixen
Power
Camp is solar powered. Charging points available in the main area and rooms. No hairdryers available.
Tranquility
With only ten rooms, Nokanyana has a very intimate and laid back feel. Perfect for relaxing with family and friends.
Experiences
Full days out or shorter activities in the area can be arranged depending on how you would like to spend the day.
Under The Stars
Traditional Boma song and dance evenings on the river’s edge are a wonderful way to end the day.
Cuisine
Our chefs cook up a storm to make every meal special and memorable. We can easily cater to your dietary requirements; just let us know in advance.
GALLERY
EXPERIENCES
Morning & Afternoon Game Drives
Join our knowledgeable Nature Host and head out in search of the wonderful wildlife Africa is famous for. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, leopards, lions, waterbuck and many more.
Full Day Trips
Travel further afield and spend the day exploring Khwai for some incredible wildlife sightings. You can also explore the Moremi Game Reserve or Savute (this is an optional extra).
Sundowners
There is nothing more beautiful than an African sunset – and your guide knows the best spots along the river to relax with a cooling drink and some delicious snacks.
Bush Walks
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore the bush by foot – really getting up close with nature – as you learn about the local area.
Game Viewing
The Khwai’s location on the edge of a world-class wetland and the start of the dry, make it unbeatable for birding – including a section of the river called Raptor Alley.
Night Drives
Go in search of nocturnal animals with our knowledgeable guides. Witness the change in behaviour as predators venture out on the prowl or see some of the animals rarely seen during the day.
CUSTOMISE YOUR EXPERIENCE

HELI FLIGHT
Experience the best of the Okavango Delta with an open doors helicopter flight over some of the most untouched and remote areas.

ELEPHANT HAVENS & HELI FLIGHT
This is a wonderful experience for the whole family. Enthusiastic guides will tell you about the orphaned elephants and explain their behaviour through captivating storytelling and display.
HOW TO FIND US
Flight time from Maun to Khwai Airstrip is approximately 35 minutes, with an hour drive to Nokanyana.
Nokanyana is 127kms from Maun. It is located close to the southern parts of Chobe National Park, Khwai, Moremi Game Reserve and Savute, making it an ideal place to stay if you’re driving through Botswana.