Highlights
What We Love
- Seasonal game drives to Hunda Island
- Learning more in the gallery and museum
- Spotting Pel’s fishing owl and shy sitatunga antelope
When To Visit
Peak Season: July to October
Water levels rise and herds of lechwe can be seen leaping through the wetlands as you are poled along in a mokoro.
Green Season: November to April
As water levels recede, more land opens up and game drives to Hunda Island are possible. Look out for large flocks of wattled cranes.
Overview
Jao derives its name from an indigenous word that means ‘to try something that is sweet tasting’ and ‘a channel that brings new water’. It is a fitting moniker for one of Botswana’s premier water-based camps that promises a world of twinkling lagoons, beautiful lilies, abundant birdlife and thriving game.
The interior matches the interior with an unusual mesh dome sala at the pool and a soaring museum and gallery space to house an iconic giraffe skeleton. In addition to a magical sleepout and two villas, Jao also offers unusual expeditions like visiting Hambukashu village to learn more about co-existing with elephants and trips to the spiritual Tsodilo Hills. The lodge has a gym, spa, wine cellar and a children’s club.
Facilities
- Gym
- Sleepout
- Wine cellar
- Spa
- Swimming pool
- Bar
- Lounge
- Dining area
- Deck
- Outdoor fireplace
- Safari shop
- Library
- Boma
- Guide / pilot room
- Laundry service
- Family unit
Suite Features
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Lounge
- Plunge pool
- Fireplace
- Sala
- Deck
- Bathtub
- Indoor shower
- Outside shower
- Fan
- Electrical charging points
- Hairdryer
- Beverage station
Villa Features
- Two bedrooms
- Two bathrooms
- Private vehicle
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Kitchenette
- Private chef
- Butler service
- Fire pit
- Lounge
- Plunge pool
- Deck
- Fireplace
- Sala
- Bathtub
- Indoor shower
- Outside shower
- Fan
- Electrical charging points
- Hairdryer
- Beverage station
Activities
- Game drives
- Mekoro rides
- Birding
- Nature walks
- Night drives
- Seasonal catch-and-release fishing
- Cultural tours (extra cost)
- Boating
- Scenic flights (extra cost)