Learning Tree Centre
The Learning Tree provides foundations for literacy, numeracy and vital nutrition for growing young minds in Shorbe Village, as well as skills development for the uplift of women.
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Set amid the pristine landscapes of Botswana’s iconic Moremi Game Reserve, our new premier camp – Tawana – offers an unrivalled discovery of the Okavango Delta and the wider wilderness ecosystem of northern Botswana. It stands in harmony with the lush forests and grasslands that line the banks of the perennial Gomoti river, blending the romance of a contemporary safari camp with unforgettable safari experiences. Entirely unfenced, the wildlife wander through camp, almost unaware.
Tawana, in partnership with Chief Tawana Moremi, is dedicated to preserving the eco-system and celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. A truly unique and unforgettable safari experience, this is where fortunate guests can freely explore one of the last wild corners of Africa.
Simply by making a choice to visit Tawana you are already leaving a positive impact on the development of local communities and also supporting projects that help to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Tawana is located in the south-eastern sector of the Moremi Game Reserve, immediately to the east of the famous Qorokwe and Chitabe Concessions. The reserve covers nearly 5000 square kilometers [1900 square miles] of wilderness, and is the oldest protected section of the Okavango Delta, a proclaimed World Heritage Site.
There are direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Maun, followed by a helicopter transfer straight to camp or a light aircraft transfer to Santawani airstrip for an onward road transfer and game drive to camp.
Tawana is an all year round destination. Each season offering its own character and opportunities for unique sightings. The water filled floodplains attract the big herds to the wider Okavango Delta between July and October. When the water levels recede in the floodplains game is attracted to the Gomoti River which flows past Tawana, offering front row seats for remarkable sightings from the camp.
At Tawana you’ll be immersed in one of the greatest wilderness areas on earth, whilst cradled in the comfort and luxury of this new premier safari camp. Here you’ll find 8 spacious suites, including 3 family rooms, each stretching out to approximately 100-square-metres in size (130-square metres for family units), with a separate lounge area, outdoor sala and a private terrace with a refreshing plunge pool, creating a serene space for you to relax in between excursion.
The design aesthetic, drawn from the organic tones and textures of the landscape as well as the cultural heritage of the local Batawana tribe, creates a stylish and contemporary safari space. Each suite thoughtfully oriented to offer perfect privacy and uninterrupted views of the Gomoti River and game-rich floodplains.
The spacious communal area in camp includes an elegant lounge and bar area, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a wood-fired pizza oven and a walk-in wine bar, while the curated library has books on the history of Moremi Game Reserve and the Batawana tribe. The outdoor lounge around the firepit offers the opportunity for contemplating the remarkable wilderness beyond and admiring the stars above.
For some down-time, spa and wellness treatments are available to guests in the privacy of their own rooms, along with in-room weights and yoga mats. For those who want to stay in shape there is a well-equipped gym and a 16-metre lap pool (also perfect to relax around).
The south-eastern reaches of the Moremi Game Reserve, in which Tawana is located, is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, including healthy populations of key predators – particularly lion, leopard and African wild dogs – which are frequently sighted just meters from the camp.
The permanent waters of the Gomoti River ensure a wide variety of game is present in the area year-round. Look forward to sighting large herds of antelope, including the semi-aquatic red lechwe and shy sitatunga. Within the lagoons and pools of the Gomoti large pods of hippos make themselves at home, while enormous Nile crocodiles are often seen basking on the banks.
When the first summer rains arrive in November, breeding herds of elephants move into the mopane forests as the natural waterholes begin to fill. This ‘green season’ of summertime brings its own magic, transforming the Moremi into a lush green landscape. Summer is also the best time for birders, with the arrival of the summer migrants. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, and throughout the year the waterways and grasslands ensure the Moremi is a twitcher’s delight.
Get access to a range of experiences that can be enjoyed during your stay
When you visit, you will be directly supporting the following Natural Selection conservation initatives:
Tawana is named in honour of Chief Tawana Moremi, the paramount chief of the Batawana tribe, whose forebears have been instrumental in conserving the wilderness of northern Botswana.
The tribe’s rich cultural heritage and deep roots in the landscape provided rich inspiration for architect Michael Kornmuller in the architecture and aesthetic of Tawana, resulting in a camp with an indelible sense of place.
It was the current chief’s father and grandmother who in 1963 took the visionary step to set aside much of their ancestral hunting grounds to protect the wildlife and help establish the Moremi Game Reserve. Recognising Natural Selection’s commitment to conservation, environmental sustainability and community development, the current Chief Tawana chose to partner with Natural Selection in the construction of the camp, safeguarding these ancestral lands for future generations and providing much-needed social upliftment for the Batawana people.
In addition to providing vital employment and skills development in the region, Natural Selection also works closely with the women of the local basket-weaving centre to produce unique pieces for both the camp décor, as well as the on-site gift shop. The camp partners with the nearby Shorobe community to operate an early learning centre for preschool children.