Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
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5.0
#8 of 35 campgrounds in MaunLocation
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Located on a secluded concession in the southern region of the Okavango Delta, Amber River Camp is situated on a permanent water channel, bordering the Moremi Game Reserve. This concession offers an exciting, game-rich safari experience with year-round game drives and water activities. The design of Amber River Camp is a deliberate return to the authentic safari camps of days gone by and, with just 6 luxurious tented suites, it offers o ne of the most intimate and exclusive safari experiences available in the Delta. The Camp is shaded by a grove of giant Leadwood trees on the edge of an expansive lagoon, filled with grunting hippos and fringed with waving papyrus. This permanent water sour ce attracts many animals and birds, both great and small. The main guest areas include an open-air dining tent, a comfortable lounge area known as the “Map Room”, a congenial bar area, and a fire pit - all with views over the lagoon. The unique multi-layered design of the tented bedrooms means that the inside temperature is several degrees cooler than the outside temperature. The bedrooms offer a choice of twin or king-sized extra-length beds with mosquito nets, uniquely stylish safari furniture and a private veranda. The en-suite inside bathrooms offer his ‘n hers hot water showers, double basins and a flush toilet. The rooms also have a private outdoor bathroom, complete with an outside shower and a luxury bath tub for bathing under the stars. Amber River Camp provides a complete Delta experience, with a wide variety of activities : game drives , guided bush walks and mokoro trips.
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Property amenities
Bar / lounge
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HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Romantic
Location
Amber River Camp, Maun, Ngamiland East Botswana
Getting there
Car recommended
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 48 out of 100
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Amber River Camp was an amazing experience. The people are so friendly and accommodating. The staff felt like family by the time we left, and the food was outstanding. The camp is in a private concession which allows access to drive right up to animals. Our guide Carter was extremely knowledgeable and did a wonderful job. We loved the privacy that the concession offered as there were no other vehicles around which made it feel like you were more in nature with the animals. The camp has a great location where the elephants would come through the middle of the camp each day to feed. They would also hang out by the pool with you which was such a great experience. The tents are luxurious and you can hear wildlife throughout the night including hippos, lions, and baboons. We saw elephant, zebra, giraffe, impala, kudu, lions, warthogs, buffalo, wildebeest, hippos, crocs, mongoose, african wild cats, and tons of birds. Note that it is difficult to find hyena, cheetah, and leopards. Overall this was a fantastic safari camp and will give you a personalized safari experience including game drives and mokoro rides. I proposed to my girlfriend prior to arriving to the camp, and Amber River gave us a special and personalized dinner and gift which was amazing. Highly recommend to anyone traveling to the Okavango Delta!
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Book early since there are only 6 tents at this camp.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Jul 16, 2023
Thank you for your wonderful review. Congratulations on your engagement, hope you visit us again soon. Kind Regards The Staff at Amber River Camp
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
If you want to be REALLY close with the animals Amber River is the place to stay! We just returned from 3 nights at this luxury campsite and the staff, accomodations and location made it a highlight of our trip to Botswana, Zimbabwe and Cape Town SA.
Firstly we arrived by helicopter from Maun. When the helicopter landed after a 15 min flight to the Okovango Delta a jeep was waiting for us.The staff new exactly when to expect us. They played a funny joke and told us we would have another 45 minute drive to the camp when actually the camp was only a few 100 yards away. When we drove up we were warmly greeted with cold beverages, towels and singing by Aretha, Ollie, Moss and the rest of the beautiful people at Amber River.
Our bags were taken to our tents and we were given an orientation by Aretha in the main tent. We were then taken to our accomodations. They were fantastic. Beautifully decorated and at times we forgot we were in a tent. The decks overlook so much animal life that we would sit out during every spare moment to watch the elephants, zebras, pumbas (wharthogs) cape buffalo and giraffes pass by.
The tents are completely private. They have outdoor showers and tubs as well as an indoor shower for 2. The tents are not heated but hot water bottles are provided for the beds.
The food was very good and they were so kind as to make sure there were always meatless options for me at every meal. They also surpeised me with a birthday cake one night as they knew the safari was to celebrate a special birthday.
Our guide Moss while very new to the OD (coming from Savute) was very knoweldgable and kind. We had some exceptional animal encounters on some drives. Even one night drive with the less stellar wild life was fun because we spotted a small African wild cat and rabbit at night. The most thrilling was the surprise bush lunch they planned for us. We had taken a mokoro (canoe) ride through the delta in the morning and thought we were being driven back to the campsite to eat. We turned a corner and a beautiful lunch had been set up for all 9 camp guests. It was a delicious spread of food and as well as an ice bucket of wine and cold beverages. They even surprised our friends who were traveling with us and brought out an anniversary cake. After we finished eating the guides told us to hurry back into the jeeps as the area lion pride showed up not far away. At first we thought it was a joke. Then we understood it was real. We drove over to watch 6 lions as they attempted to hunt zebra and a monitor lizard. We were so involved with eating our amazing lunch that none of us realized the lions had arrived. The staff was always on alert for our safety and they were so amazing at spotting animals.
We were sad to leave Amber River and want to thank the staff again for making our stay so very special.
Firstly we arrived by helicopter from Maun. When the helicopter landed after a 15 min flight to the Okovango Delta a jeep was waiting for us.The staff new exactly when to expect us. They played a funny joke and told us we would have another 45 minute drive to the camp when actually the camp was only a few 100 yards away. When we drove up we were warmly greeted with cold beverages, towels and singing by Aretha, Ollie, Moss and the rest of the beautiful people at Amber River.
Our bags were taken to our tents and we were given an orientation by Aretha in the main tent. We were then taken to our accomodations. They were fantastic. Beautifully decorated and at times we forgot we were in a tent. The decks overlook so much animal life that we would sit out during every spare moment to watch the elephants, zebras, pumbas (wharthogs) cape buffalo and giraffes pass by.
The tents are completely private. They have outdoor showers and tubs as well as an indoor shower for 2. The tents are not heated but hot water bottles are provided for the beds.
The food was very good and they were so kind as to make sure there were always meatless options for me at every meal. They also surpeised me with a birthday cake one night as they knew the safari was to celebrate a special birthday.
Our guide Moss while very new to the OD (coming from Savute) was very knoweldgable and kind. We had some exceptional animal encounters on some drives. Even one night drive with the less stellar wild life was fun because we spotted a small African wild cat and rabbit at night. The most thrilling was the surprise bush lunch they planned for us. We had taken a mokoro (canoe) ride through the delta in the morning and thought we were being driven back to the campsite to eat. We turned a corner and a beautiful lunch had been set up for all 9 camp guests. It was a delicious spread of food and as well as an ice bucket of wine and cold beverages. They even surprised our friends who were traveling with us and brought out an anniversary cake. After we finished eating the guides told us to hurry back into the jeeps as the area lion pride showed up not far away. At first we thought it was a joke. Then we understood it was real. We drove over to watch 6 lions as they attempted to hunt zebra and a monitor lizard. We were so involved with eating our amazing lunch that none of us realized the lions had arrived. The staff was always on alert for our safety and they were so amazing at spotting animals.
We were sad to leave Amber River and want to thank the staff again for making our stay so very special.
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Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Be prepared to hear wild animals at night. We loved this aspect. If you are cold ask for "bush...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
+1
We have stayed at many safari camps but Amber River Camp has been the best by far.
We arrived like Hollywood stars in a helicopter where we got to see the delta from above.We were then greeted by t friendly enthusiastic staff who broke out into song.
Our luxury tented suites were beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. They were well secluded, so much so that we were able to enjoy an outdoor bath under the stars which was an awesome experience.
The suites had amazing views over the wetlands where we could just sit and enjoy the sounds and sights of nature.
The game viewing was spectacular and we saw a wide variety of game, including a pack of wild dogs feeding on their kill. We were introduced to birdwatching as the Delta is teeming with bird life. Our game ranger was extremely knowledgeable and provided us with so many interesting stories and facts which kept us engaged and entertained for the duration of our game drives.
On every game drive we stopped and enjoyed drinks and snacks while watching the stunning Delta sun sets.
We did not ,however, have to go far to see game as we could sit around the pool while watching the elephants roam around our camp.
Despite being in nature and miles from the nearest town we enjoyed the most amazing meals and snacks. Every day we looked forward to our bush high tea where we got to enjoy the most delicious cakes and snacks.
My favourites being the carrot cake and scones. Our days ended with an unique dinner experience under the stars.
The staff contributed to a very enjoyable stay as they were always eager to help and were quick with a smile and a joke.
A wonderful ending to our perfect few days at Amber was a Mokoro ride, which was a peaceful, serene trip along the shallow waters of the delta.
I am already planning my next trip to Amber River Camp.
We arrived like Hollywood stars in a helicopter where we got to see the delta from above.We were then greeted by t friendly enthusiastic staff who broke out into song.
Our luxury tented suites were beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. They were well secluded, so much so that we were able to enjoy an outdoor bath under the stars which was an awesome experience.
The suites had amazing views over the wetlands where we could just sit and enjoy the sounds and sights of nature.
The game viewing was spectacular and we saw a wide variety of game, including a pack of wild dogs feeding on their kill. We were introduced to birdwatching as the Delta is teeming with bird life. Our game ranger was extremely knowledgeable and provided us with so many interesting stories and facts which kept us engaged and entertained for the duration of our game drives.
On every game drive we stopped and enjoyed drinks and snacks while watching the stunning Delta sun sets.
We did not ,however, have to go far to see game as we could sit around the pool while watching the elephants roam around our camp.
Despite being in nature and miles from the nearest town we enjoyed the most amazing meals and snacks. Every day we looked forward to our bush high tea where we got to enjoy the most delicious cakes and snacks.
My favourites being the carrot cake and scones. Our days ended with an unique dinner experience under the stars.
The staff contributed to a very enjoyable stay as they were always eager to help and were quick with a smile and a joke.
A wonderful ending to our perfect few days at Amber was a Mokoro ride, which was a peaceful, serene trip along the shallow waters of the delta.
I am already planning my next trip to Amber River Camp.
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Date of stay: August 2022
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Nov 16, 2022
Hi Lindy, Thank you for your fabulous review. We look forward to welcoming back to Amber River Camp in the near future. Kind Regards The Amber River Camp Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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We stayed in this fantastic Lodge for two days. We were (we were really lucky) the only guests and therefore we were able to savor everything even better. The Lodge is basically in the middle of nowhere. We had lunch, slept and got up with elephants, impalas etc at 5 meters. Our little house was a small palace. In addition to the bathroom inside there was the possibility of taking a shower and also a beautiful bathtub to use. Imagine the postcard of all this. Attention to every detail. Staff available for any request. Very good brunch and dinner. But the real added value is the safari. It's not the classic safari where you go out and the ranger with the radios hears you with other jeeps and then rushes to get there. No, absolutely no. Here you participate with the guide in search of animals. You stop, look at the footprints, listen to the noises and have breakfast with your ranger; in short, you live and actively participate in the Safari. We saw all breeds of animals and even lesser-known ones. Even in the evening when it was dark we went in search of animals. Here we were looking for all this and we found it. Well done and super compliments.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It was our first stay in Botswana and in the Amber River Camp, but for sure not our last one! We enjoyed a direct flight from Cape Town to Maun with Airlink, we were welcomed by the team from helicopter Horizons and and enjoyed a scenic flight over the delta as we saw the first elephant herds already. We were then greeted by lovely, friendly and enthusiastic staff who broke out into song. The two of us had the entire camp and staff 100 % at our disposal as we were the only guests at that time. In the first moment we felt a bit overwhelmed, but the entire team created such a great guest experience for us, it felt a bit like a second honeymoon. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed very incredible moments. The camp is completely open where the hippo or giraffe walked through the camp and passed your luxury tent. In the nights we could listen to the music of the bush and delta, croaking of the frogs, roaring of the lions or the grunt of the hippos.
The luxury tented suites were beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable and remembered the old days. We had amazing views over the delta where we could just sit and enjoy the sounds and sights of nature.
The game drives were very special, we learned a lot about the wildlife and bird world in the Okavango Delta. Master, our game ranger was extremely knowledgeable and provided us with so many interesting facts and insights which kept us engaged and fascinated during our game drives. We enjoyed the early morning drives during the sun rises, also watching the stunning sunsets in the Delta accompanied with some drinks. Between the two game drives we enjoyed our private pool, relaxing and watching the elephants or antelopes around the camp.
We enjoyed the delicious food, we would not miss the bush high tee ceremony before we got on the late game drive. They provided the most delicious finger food and cakes to us. Despite being in nature and far away from the nearest town we enjoyed the most amazing hospitality. Our days ended with a unique dinner experience under the stars and listening to the music of the night in the bush.
The entire team (to name a few like Melanie, Kat, Master and Oli) did a fantastic job, they created outstanding experiences for us and always with a smile and kind word or even a joke. We touched the earth slightly!
Nicole & Matthias
Nicole & Matthias
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Jul 16, 2023
Hi Nicole and Matthias, Thank you for your wonderful review. Kind Regards The Amber River Camp Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
to Maun where we were met by our guide from Amber River Camp, located in the south east of the Delta. After a 2,5 hrs drive we were warmly welcomed by the entire staff. Amber River Camp is an unprecedented and new camp in the Delta and has only been open since April this year. Carine and I quickly got the impression that we were one of the first guests. We had the entire camp and staff 100 % at our disposal as we were the only guests at that time. This felt a bit uncomfortable for us, since all those lovely people made so much effort for us. Nevertheless a wonderful stay and very indelible moments. What was very special about this camp was that it was a completely private concession and therefore off-road drives were a pleasure. It was also a completely open camp where the hippo, elephant and lion walked through the camp and passed your tent (total luxury). So watch out was the message and don't be disturbed by nocturnal noises (roar of the lion and grunt of the hippo). A intimate and exclusive safari experience and deliberate return old days
So in a very clean and cooling pool you imagined yourself in a movie set. This residence, a bit off the beaten track and luxury, was a hidden gem and it definitely deserves its place.
So in a very clean and cooling pool you imagined yourself in a movie set. This residence, a bit off the beaten track and luxury, was a hidden gem and it definitely deserves its place.
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Date of stay: September 2022
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Dec 8, 2022
Thank you for your review, we are so glad you enjoyed your experience with us and your feedback is greatly appreciated. Kind Regards Taryn
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We have been visiting Botswana for more than a decade, and have stayed at several camps, but Amber has been the most memorable so far. We took the short helicopter ride from Maun to the camp, and this is worthwhile as one can get a better idea of the delta.
The staff is excellent and went out of their way to make us feel special. Food in the camp is prepared by qualified chefs and is the highlight at the end of the day. It is amazing what they can do in the middle of the bush.
Wildlife is abundant, and it is a good area for wildlife and bird photography The guides are very knowledgeable and made sure that we could take special shots.
The sunsets are spectacular and having a sundowner in the bush is memorable.
The staff is excellent and went out of their way to make us feel special. Food in the camp is prepared by qualified chefs and is the highlight at the end of the day. It is amazing what they can do in the middle of the bush.
Wildlife is abundant, and it is a good area for wildlife and bird photography The guides are very knowledgeable and made sure that we could take special shots.
The sunsets are spectacular and having a sundowner in the bush is memorable.
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Nov 20, 2022
We are so glad you consider Amber River Camp one of your most memorable experiences in Botswana. Thank you so much for your lovely review. Kind Regards The Amber River Camp Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amber river provides the most exceptional wildlife safari experience I've ever been on. The game viewing is amazing with the best and most knowledgeable and friendly guides that maximize each sighting. And there is no shortage of sightings! To experience elephants at your doorstep or while in the pool is so special. But besides the amazing wildlife is the mire amazing staff that will make you never want to leave. Or least wishing you'll get back. Thank you Amber River Camp. 5 🌟 in every way
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Just go!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Taryn Deneys, Sales at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Responded Jul 16, 2023
Thank you for reviewing our property. We hope you come stay with us again soon. Kind Regards The Staff at Amber River Camp
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This camp is an open camp, no fences to keep out animals. 6 luxury tents, wonderful food, very hot and dry in late September. No AC in the rooms, but 2 fans and the swimming pool area was nicely shaded and pool water was cool. All drinks were plentiful and included as was the food, wine, snacks. The Okavango gin was a big hit at sundown time and in the afternoon!! Staff were wonderful; friendly and helpful. Our Guide and Tracker, Carter was excellent!!! He tracked and found 2 groups of wild dogs and a leopard!! and many other animals.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Room 3 was very private and quiet and furthest from the main area.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great experience from start to finish. Flight in (and out) via helicopter. Warm welcome from all staff on arrival. Everyone attentive, genuinely seeking to please and always polite and patient. Wonderful accommodation - tents large and very well appointed. Outlook over water in front of camp amazing - huge range of animals on view inc. lion. Food was fabulous. Huge portions - simply couldn't eat everything! Pool area to cool down if choose very nice. Lastly, huge range of animals on park. Guide Katah was very knowledgeable and hard working although conservancy vast so finding some of animals not easy. Thanks to everyone start to finish for looking after us.
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Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Just ask and staff more than willing to try and help out.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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"Be prepared to hear wild animals at night. We loved this aspect. If you are cold ask for "bush babies" hot water bottles for the bed. "Read full review
LOCATION
BotswanaNorth-West DistrictNgamiland EastMaun
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
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Frequently Asked Questions about Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems
Which popular attractions are close to Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems?
Nearby attractions include Your Botswana Experience (1.0 km), African Guide Academy (0.00 km), and General Trading Company (0.5 km).
What food & drink options are available at Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems?
Guests can enjoy a lounge during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems?
Conveniently located restaurants include Marc's Eatery, Dusty Donkey Café, and Tandurei Indian Restaurant.
Is Amber River Camp - Okavango Hidden Gems located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.7 km away from the centre of Maun.