Mapula

Birding is an ever-present part of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12), with its diverse habitats supporting an impressive variety of species throughout the year. From the lodge itself, birds are often within view, while game drives, mokoro excursions and walking safaris reveal different habitats and new opportunities for observation. For seasoned birders, private guiding and Specialist Guiding are available, offering a more focused exploration of the concession and its exceptional birdlife. Please enquire.

Venture into the deeper waters of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12), where fishing brings a more adventurous dimension to the wilderness. Suitable for novice and skilled anglers alike, the experience is entirely catch-and-release, with the excitement of the pursuit matched by a deep respect for the ecosystem. Equipment is provided, although guests are welcome to bring their own. Each boat accommodates a maximum of six guests. Please note: fishing is not permitted during January and February every year.

The Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12) is where Botswana’s land, water and wildlife come together in remarkable abundance. A wild, lightly visited landscape, the concession is shaped by a rich interplay of ecosystems that creates exceptional conditions for wildlife. Explore it on game drives and night drives in open 4x4 vehicles, with responsible off-road driving permitted where conditions allow. Each vehicle accommodates a maximum of eight guests.

Much of the Mapula and Sekwana Concession (NG12) unfolds in a story of liquid pathways and glittering channels. Experience it from the water on a mokoro excursion (traditional dugout canoe), gliding at eye level through the reeds as the smaller details of this extraordinary ecosystem come alive. Each mokoro accommodates a maximum of two guests and is poled by a fully qualified guide with years of experience, offering an intimate and unhurried way to explore the waterways.

Explore Mapula’s deeper waterways by hard-bottom aluminium motorboat, travelling through the concession’s permanent channels and open stretches of water. These excursions offer excellent opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and wildlife along the banks, while revealing a different side of this remarkable wetland wilderness. Max 8 guests per boat.

Available across the lodge’s full range of activities. Ideal for families, groups/couples, special interest travellers, or guests with specific mobility needs. Subject to availability and booking. Surcharges apply. *Please note that a dedicated guide throughout an entire circuit is available only with Specialist Guiding.

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Mapula’s waterways, floodplains, wildlife and expansive wilderness. Doors-off flights can be arranged for unobstructed views, making this a particularly rewarding perspective for photographers. Booking is essential. Max 3 guests per flight. Surcharges apply.

Conducted by guides with decades of experience and specialised expertise, from birding to astrology. Ideal for specific safari goals, continuity, and connection. Includes a dedicated guide and private activities throughout a full Desert & Delta Safaris circuit. Please enquire for more information.

Step into the rhythm of the wild on foot. Walking safaris at Mapula offer a closer, quieter way to experience the concession, where tracks, birdsong, plants and the smallest signs of life reveal a landscape that can easily pass unnoticed from a vehicle. Led by two fully qualified guides, each safari moves at a considered pace, allowing guests to read the wilderness through its details and deepen their connection with this extraordinary ecosystem.