Zarafa Dhow Suites – Ultra-Private Safari Luxury in Botswana’s Selinda Reserve
1. Introduction
The Zarafa Dhow Suites offer one of Africa’s most exclusive and luxurious private safari residences. Set within Botswana’s private Selinda Reserve, this two-bedroom retreat is part of Great Plains Conservation’s Réserve Collection. With its own staff, vehicle, and guide, the Dhow Suites provide a bespoke safari experience for families or small groups seeking complete privacy, exquisite design, and front-row access to some of the most thrilling wildlife encounters in the region.
2. Location – Selinda Reserve, Northern Botswana
Situated on the banks of the Zibadianja Lagoon in the vast Selinda Reserve, the Zarafa Dhow Suites enjoy one of Botswana’s most scenic and wildlife-rich settings. This 130,000-hectare private reserve connects the Okavango Delta to the Chobe region, ensuring high concentrations of elephants, lions, wild dogs, and a variety of birdlife in a pristine, crowd-free environment.
3. The Camp – Luxury Safari Accommodation in Botswana
The Zarafa Dhow Suites comprise a stand-alone safari villa with two large en-suite bedrooms, ideal for families or friends travelling together. Inspired by the grand trading dhows of the East African coast, the suite offers:
– Expansive indoor living and dining spaces with reclaimed hardwood furnishings
– Two large bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and copper soaking tubs
– Outdoor lounge deck with private plunge pool and fire pit
– Dedicated chef, private safari guide, and exclusive-use safari vehicle
– Air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, personal photographic gear, and curated wine selection
The suite blends hand-crafted detail with full modern comforts, and is powered entirely by solar energy, underscoring Great Plains Conservation’s eco-luxury ethos.
4. Activities & Wildlife Viewing – Tailored Safaris & Total Privacy
The Dhow Suites offer a fully personalised and private safari program tailored to the pace and interests of your group. Activities include:
– Private Game Drives: Explore the Selinda Reserve in your own open 4×4 vehicle
– Boat Excursions (seasonal): Drift across the Zibadianja Lagoon by pontoon boat
– Bush Walks: Guided explorations of the landscape on foot
– Birdwatching: Spot kingfishers, herons, eagles, and over 300 species
– Stargazing and Firepit Evenings: Unwind under Botswana’s vast night sky
– Photography: Professional Canon/Nikon gear and support for guests
The privacy and flexibility of the Dhow Suites make them ideal for milestone celebrations, multigenerational families, or guests who want complete exclusivity.
5. Guest Information & Inclusions
The Zarafa Dhow Suites are open year-round and deliver unforgettable experiences in all seasons. Key information includes:
– Minimum Age: 6 years
– Inclusions: Full board, all beverages, private chef, private safari guide and vehicle, laundry, photographic gear, airstrip transfers
– Access: Light aircraft flights from Maun, Kasane, or nearby camps to Selinda Airstrip
– Best Time to Visit: May to October for peak game viewing; green season offers lush landscapes and abundant birdlife
Our expert staff are on-hand, happy to assist with any enquiry you have.