Mapula has become one of the most reliable areas to see male lions.
© Bill Given

We reported earlier about Mapula Lodge closing down late March due to Okavango Delta Flood of 2010. Camp downtime was used by the new owner to make some necessary refurbishments. As Mapula Lodge re-opens ,a ton of exciting new improvements have been made as detailed in this blog post.

New Vehicles at Mapula Lodge

The guides at Mapula Lodge drive off road more then anywhere else that I have been, critical for tracking predators in this large and wild area but it’s said that this area of the Delta eats vehicles - so it is great to have this new investment.

Mapula Lodge's New Boat

With higher water levels, a power boating experience has now been added, which in combination with mekoros allows for a full exploration of the Okavango Delta environment. The boat also provides a big game drive advantage, in times of high water vehicles can be left at a prime starting location and then guests can boat from camp saving time of driving through the high waters before reaching better game viewing.

Mapula Lodge Refurbishment

The common areas and all of the chalets have undergone full refurbishment. While the lodge has always maintained a tremendous atmosphere and is one of the most scenically located safari camps anywhere, the chalets had become worn after nearly four years of use. Things like screens and re-thatching were needed to restore the camp to prime condition.

Village Visits

My pioneering visit to Gudigwa Village was a highlight of my October safari.
© Bill Given

In October I had the remarkable opportunity to pioneer a cultural visit with the Elders at Gudigwa Village. The stories and the culture shared by these river bushmen was a powerful experience and likely the top highlight for a group I was guiding. Apparently the Elders enjoyed our visit as well and Mapula will be adding this opportunity for Lodge guests to visit with these fascinating people and get a real feel for a rural Botswana village. Because it is necessary to drive across 3 or 4 channels on a two hour or so drive through the bush, these visits may not be able to occur during high flood times.

Fly Camping at Mapula

I have often talked to the guides and the Management company, Footsteps in Africa, about adding a Fly Camping experience so I am very excited at this development. The concession Mapula is in encompasses 875,000 acres and thus game drives can only cover a portion of the area making it advantageous to offer fly camping. Some of the best areas, like Old Vumbura, that sits right across a channel from the Duba Plains concession, are absolute paradises but very wild and far to reach. This means extra long game drives and insufficient time to properly explore because you need to turn around shortly after arriving. With fly camping these remote areas can be reached and more fully explored as a lightweight camp is set up to allow you to overnight in the area, a true wilderness experience. Fly camping will be offered at no additional cost!