Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa

Botswana. The very name conjures images of shimmering salt pans, verdant floodplains teeming with life, and skies ablaze with a million stars by night.  It’s a land I’ve discovered over the years to be of untamed beauty, a place where the rhythm of nature dictates the pace of life, whisking you away into the throngs of Southern Africa’s wilderness.

And nestled within this breathtaking landscape, under the esteemed Natural Selection portfolio, lies a sanctuary of understated elegance and authentic African charm: Duke’s East Camp. Not too sure what to expect as my charter took off from Maun International Airport, I was certain that my experience would likely go over as brilliantly as the one undertaken a few months before. Afterall, any camp that seamlessly blends a luxurious offering with a respect for the natural surroundings of which it was built, is one I will happily pack a bag for.

Natural Selection has long been synonymous with crafting exceptional travel experiences, boasting a collection of lodges and camps that celebrate the unique character of their surroundings. This was my first time experiencing part of their portfolio, in what was slated to be an exciting 7-day discovery of some of its camps in the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve. Duke’s East was my first stop and opportunity to test out the brand’s hallmarks, checking into a distinctive camp that doubled as a haven where discerning travellers can immerse themselves in the magic of Botswana, while enjoying unparalleled comfort and personalized service.

Inside Duke’s East – and your tent

And what a remarkable welcome it was! A sister camp and smaller to its predecessorDuke’s Camp, Duke’s East delivers on its promise of an intimate camp, comprising just four exquisitely designed tents and offering a privileged glimpse into the heart of the Okavango Delta from the comfort of your tent. Perched on raised wooden decks, with winding pathways of hedge-like foliage of leadwood and ebony treesleading to each tent, each one is a masterpiece of sustainable design, with inspiration borrowed from the vintage style that embellishes the original Duke’s Camp.

Imagine flowing drapery stitched up of plush, vibrantly pattern fabrics, throws of Persian Rugs across your wooden floors, and hand-carved four-poster beds for that extra touch of regal flair. African memorabilia and elements collected from the outdoors formed decorative piecesthat complimented my tent’s furnishings beautifully, delivering an aesthetic thatseemed to invoke the spirit of a bygone era.

I particularly revelled in the sight of my spacious en-suite bathroom, characterised by the contrasts between abundant brass fittings, ceramic sinks, bespoke amenities, and a wooden walkway leading to an outdoor shower.

The front of my tent was a welcoming viewing deck, furnished by two chairs, and perfect a setting to enjoy my cup of piping hot coffee by morning, and a refreshing glass of wine or G&T when in my tent in the afternoon.Behind the canvas and inside the tent was a cozy seating area, a space I grew comfortable using for quiet reflection on my time in the wilderness. It also became a space I’d relish the opportunity for spontaneous game sightings, with sounds of nearby lions roaring or the crunch of hippos feeding by night, offering somewhat of a serenade into the night’s silence. All in all, the curved canvas and natural materials from which the individual tents are made, create a sense of organic harmony with the surrounding bush, while luxurious touches ensure an unforgettable stay. If I were to summarise the sensory experience one can look forward to during their stay, think handcrafted yet luxurious furnishings, private verandas overlooking the floodplains, and the soothing sounds of the African night serenading you to sleep.

Adventure beyond the canvas.

Herds of elephant and red lechwe are common here, and moments spent in quiet observation rarely go unrewarded. One activity I had long wanted to experience and finally got the chance to, was a sunset ride onboard a traditional Mokoro – the dugout canoes made from the trunks of jackalberrytrees that gracefully glide through the Delta’s waterways. 

What truly sets Duke’s East apart is its commitment to providing an immersive and enriching experience.  It’s not merely a place to stay; it’s a gateway to understanding the soul of Botswana.  The camp’s prime location within a private concession allows for unparalleled game viewing opportunities.  Days are spent exploring the Delta’s intricate network of channels and lagoons, either by mokoro, gliding silently past hippos and vibrant waterbirds, or on thrilling game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, tracking lions, leopards, and the elusive wild dog.

But the magic of Duke’s East equally extends beyond the thrill of wildlife encounters.  It’s in the quiet moments, too, that the camp’s true essence reveals itself.  Perhaps it’s the shared stories around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars with other guests, the taste of freshly prepared cuisine infused with local flavours, or the gentle rhythm of chatter among guests and the staff drifting through the air.  The camp fosters a sense of connection – to the land, to the wildlife, and to the rich cultural heritage of Botswana. Beyond game drives and mokoro excursions, Duke’s East offers a range of carefully curated activities designed to deepen your appreciation for this extraordinary ecosystem.  Guided nature walks provide an opportunity to learn about the intricate details of the flora and fauna, while birdwatching excursions reveal the Delta’s vibrant avian tapestry.  For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, visits to local villages can be arranged, offering a glimpse into the traditions and daily life of the Batswana people.

More than just a luxurious escape

Duke’s East Camp is an invitation to connect with the very heart of Botswana. It’s a place where adventure and serenity intertwine, where the raw beauty of the wilderness meets the refined elegance of a world-class camp.  It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left, a reminder of the magic that awaits in Botswana’s wilderness. 

And through the lens of Natural Selections, this extraordinary corner of the world is waiting to be discovered. To learn more about Duke’s East, visit https://naturalselection.travel/camps/dukes-east/