Savute Safari Lodge has been one of very few camps in the area for many years, meaning that the guides and staff all have intimate knowledge of this legendary safari hotspot. They can detail how the Savute Channel finally began to flow again after nearly 20 years in 2009, spilling onto the Savute Marsh during the rains and indelibly altering the wildlife that frequents the area. All of this and more will be explained in the game drives that are the lodge’s speciality, taking in the ethereal landscapes of the Marsh, searching out the timeless battle between lion and hyena, stopping off at the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills and touching on the sizeable zebra migration that occurs from November to December and again between February and April.

Accommodation is in 12 thatch and timber chalets, with sliding glass doors leading out to private verandas, some overlooking the camp waterhole. Inside, the décor is modern and minimalist, with neutral colour schemes and plenty of light wooden furnishings, along with spacious en-suite bathrooms. The main lodge has a swimming pool, comfortable lounge / bar area and an excellent viewing deck where al fresco dining can be enjoyed in the dryer months. With abundant wildlife attracted to the waterhole in full view of the lodge, especially during the dry season, this is our favourite permanent camp in Savute.