Khwai Community Concession - Image 1
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Khwai Community Concession

4.6
·29 reviews·Shaleshanto, Botswana

Experience raw, untamed Botswana at Khwai Community Concession. Wild camping, abundant wildlife, and community-led conservation make for an unforgetta...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Prime wildlife viewing

CrowdMedium
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Khwai Community Concession - Image 1

Khwai Community Concession

Best Time

Dry season mornings

Prime wildlife viewing

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience raw, untamed Botswana at Khwai Community Concession. Wild camping, abundant wildlife, and community-led conservation make for an unforgettable safari.

4.6
(29 reviews)

"Magotho is a lovely, wild campsite we booked online before coming to stay. Reservations are mandatory but there were vacant plots when we arrived."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Magotho Campsite Early

Reservations are mandatory for Magotho campsite. Book online well in advance to secure your spot for this wild experience. :ticket:

Locate Khwai Trust Office

Find the unmarked Khwai Development Trust office in Maun (Sir Seretse Khama Rd, near Shell) before your stay. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Encounters

Elephant Encounters

Khwai River

Witness gentle giants like elephants cooling off in the river or strolling through camp. A truly magical Botswana safari moment.

Lion and Hyena Sightings

Lion and Hyena Sightings

Khwai Community Concession

Home to powerful predators, Khwai offers thrilling opportunities to spot lions and hyenas, especially during game drives.

Wild Camping at Magotho

Wild Camping at Magotho

Magotho Campsite

Experience raw, remote camping with animals roaming freely. The sounds of the wild at night are an unforgettable part of the adventure.

Birdlife in Dead Tree Forest

Birdlife in Dead Tree Forest

Dead Tree Forest

Discover diverse bird species, like Meyers Parrots, amidst the unique landscape of the dead tree forest.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Magotho Campsite

Magotho campsite in Khwai is incredibly popular and requires advance booking. Arrive prepared for a truly wild camping experience with no water or power, but expect unforgettable wildlife encounters right at your tent.

Maun Trust Office Check-in

Before heading to Khwai, you MUST report to the Khwai Development Trust office in Maun. It's unmarked and tricky to find (near Shell garage, Sir Seretse Khama Rd), so allow extra time to avoid delays.

Best Times

When
Dry season mornings
Why
Prime wildlife viewing
Crowd
Medium
When
Dry season evenings
Why
Nocturnal animal activity
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The first sighting on the way into Khwai Community Concession - a pair of Meyers Parrots in the dead tree forest. #wildlife #nature #safari #africa #botswana #okavangodelta
jemharris__
63 likes • 1.7K views

Book Magotho Campsite Early

Reservations are mandatory for Magotho campsite. Book online well in advance to secure your spot for this wild experience. :ticket:

Locate Khwai Trust Office

Find the unmarked Khwai Development Trust office in Maun (Sir Seretse Khama Rd, near Shell) before your stay. :world_map:

The beautiful Khwai Community Concession
shadow_offroad_adventures
10 likes • 398 views
Morning surprise at Magotho! 🐘 Woke up to this gentle giant strolling through camp like he owned the place. Only in Botswana! Khwai Community Concession. #ElephantEncounter #Magotho #ElephantsOfAfrica #BotswanaWildlife #Khwai #SafariLife #WildAfrica #NatureEncounter #CampingInTheWild #AfricaUntamed #WildlifeExperience
solo_africa_overland
13 likes • 298 views

Self-Sufficiency is Key

Bring your own toilet paper and be prepared for no water or power at Magotho campsite. :water_wave:

Embrace the Wild Sounds

Enjoy the soundtrack of lions, hippos, and other wildlife surrounding your camp at night. :musical_note:

Hyaena den moments with Semunyeni...#semunyeni #semunyenisafari #mobilesafari #luxurytentsafari #semuyenimoments #botswanatravel #safariadventure #okavangodeltabotswana #khwaicommunityconcession
semunyeni
14 likes • 209 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Magotho Campsite Early

Reservations are mandatory for Magotho campsite. Book online well in advance to secure your spot for this wild experience. :ticket:

Locate Khwai Trust Office

Find the unmarked Khwai Development Trust office in Maun (Sir Seretse Khama Rd, near Shell) before your stay. :world_map:

Self-Sufficiency is Key

Bring your own toilet paper and be prepared for no water or power at Magotho campsite. :water_wave:

Embrace the Wild Sounds

Enjoy the soundtrack of lions, hippos, and other wildlife surrounding your camp at night. :musical_note:

River Crossings

Be prepared for river crossings like Mbudi Crossing; a 4x4 is essential. :car:

Hyena Mother's Nurturing

Observe the incredible nurturing behavior of hyena mothers and their playful pups. :baby_chick:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Khwai Community Concession is lauded for its incredibly wild and authentic safari experience, particularly at Magotho campsite. Visitors rave about the abundant wildlife, including lions and elephants, and the thrill of camping amidst nature. However, the basic facilities and the need for self-sufficiency are points to consider.

"Nice, simple and well managed camp site. Costs 400Pula p.P (26€).

Here we saw lions, lots of Elephants any Hyena."

Thorsten Kuttig

"Magotho is a lovely, wild campsite we booked online before coming to stay. Reservations are mandatory but there were vacant plots when we arrived.

NOTE: you need to report into the Khwai Development Trust building in Maun before staying here and nobody seems to know where it is. We wasted an hour following loose threads only to find it almost unmarked on Sir Seretse Khama Rd opposite the Shell garage on the way out of Maun heading NE. Coordinates: -19.9523204, 23.4736057

The campsite itself is wild and remote, with a soundtrack of lions and hippos surrounding us all night. Nice ablution block (bring your own toilet paper) and some staff in tents on site. Bin cages for disposing of waste. No water or power."

Daniel Martin

"Amazing wild camping sites. Plenty of wild animals to view on drives"

Chris Diemont

What People Like

Abundant wildlife sightings
Wild camping experience
Close animal encounters

What People Dislike

Basic campsite facilities
Need for self-sufficiency

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Khwai Community Concession typically involves driving from Maun. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially for navigating river crossings like the Mbudi Crossing. Ensure you have reported to the Khwai Development Trust office in Maun before proceeding. InstagramReddit

Game drives are the primary way to explore Khwai. Many visitors opt for self-drive safaris in their own 4x4 vehicles, while others book guided drives with local operators. Instagram

Yes, Khwai is accessible for self-drivers with a capable 4x4 vehicle. Be prepared for sandy tracks and potential river crossings. Instagram

You must report to the Khwai Development Trust office in Maun to register and obtain necessary permits or information before entering the concession. Reddit

Road conditions can vary, with sandy tracks being common. River crossings, such as the Mbudi Crossing, may require careful navigation or a winch depending on water levels. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Magotho campsite costs approximately 400 Pula per person per night. Reservations are mandatory and should be made online in advance. Reddit

Yes, reservations are mandatory, especially for popular campsites like Magotho. It's advisable to book well in advance. Reddit

The Khwai Development Trust office is located on Sir Seretse Khama Road in Maun, opposite the Shell garage on the road heading northeast out of town. It is often unmarked. Reddit

Information on specific operating hours for the Khwai Development Trust office is not readily available, but it's crucial to visit before entering the concession. Plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

While some sources mention vacant plots upon arrival, it's strongly advised to book campsites like Magotho online in advance as reservations are mandatory. Reddit

🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience

Khwai is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, hyenas, leopards, and diverse birdlife. You might even see elephants strolling through camp! InstagramReddit+5

Khwai offers a wild camping experience with animals roaming freely. While thrilling, it requires awareness and preparedness. Basic ablution blocks are available, but you are in the wilderness. Reddit

Magotho campsite is basic, offering bin cages for waste disposal and staff in tents on site. There is no water or power, and you need to bring your own toilet paper. Reddit

While mokoro safaris are iconic in the Okavango Delta, Khwai is more known for its game drives and walking safaris due to its riverine and woodland habitats. Instagram

Yes, many safari operators offer guided game drives in Khwai, providing expert knowledge and access to prime wildlife viewing spots. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Khwai offers incredible photography opportunities, from close-up wildlife encounters with lions and elephants to unique landscapes like the dead tree forest. The early morning and late evening light are particularly stunning. Instagram+5

A telephoto lens (e.g., 100-400mm or longer) is essential for wildlife photography. A wider lens can be useful for landscapes and camp scenes. Consider a sturdy tripod or beanbag for stable shots from vehicles. Instagram

While specific photography tours might not be widely advertised, many safari operators can tailor experiences for photographers, focusing on optimal viewing and lighting conditions. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best light for wildlife photography, creating dramatic and atmospheric shots. Animals are also most active during these cooler parts of the day. Instagram

Yes, animals frequently roam through campsites like Magotho, offering unique and often close-up photography opportunities. Always maintain a safe distance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Khwai offers an incredible, albeit wild, family adventure. Magotho campsite provides a unique opportunity for kids to experience nature up close, with animals often passing through. It's essential to emphasize safety and supervision at all times, given the proximity of wildlife. Reddit

Consider booking guided game drives for a more structured and informative experience. Local guides can help spot animals and share fascinating insights about the ecosystem, keeping children engaged. While facilities are basic, the sheer excitement of seeing elephants or lions can make for a truly memorable family safari. Instagram+1

🚗 Self-Drive Adventurers

For those who love the freedom of the open road, Khwai is a dream destination. Ensure your 4x4 vehicle is well-equipped for sandy tracks and potential river crossings. Download offline maps and carry essential recovery gear. Instagram

Remember the crucial step of checking in at the Khwai Development Trust office in Maun before entering the concession. Plan your route to Magotho campsite and be prepared for a truly wild camping experience with minimal facilities. The reward is unparalleled access to wildlife and the satisfaction of navigating this incredible landscape independently. Reddit

🏕️ Budget-Conscious Travelers

Khwai's Magotho campsite offers a more affordable safari experience compared to lodges. The cost of 400 Pula per person per night is a significant saving, allowing for extended stays. Reddit

However, budget travelers must be fully self-sufficient. This means bringing all your food, water, fuel, and camping gear. The lack of amenities like water and electricity at the campsite requires careful planning to manage costs and ensure comfort. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Wild Heart of Khwai: A Community-Run Gem

The Khwai Community Concession is a testament to successful community-based conservation in Botswana. Adjacent to the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai offers a more raw and untamed safari experience. Unlike national parks, it's managed by the local community, with proceeds directly benefiting them. This model often leads to a more intimate and less crowded feel, allowing for incredible wildlife encounters right at your doorstep, especially at campsites like Magotho. Instagram+1

Visitors can expect a diverse range of ecosystems, from riverine forests along the Khwai River to open woodlands and floodplains. This variety supports a rich tapestry of wildlife. The concession is particularly famous for its high predator densities, making it a prime location for spotting lions, leopards, and hyenas. The community's involvement ensures that tourism benefits the local people, fostering a sustainable approach to wildlife preservation. Instagram+1

When planning your visit, remember that Khwai is a wild camping destination. Facilities are basic, and self-sufficiency is key. However, the reward is an unparalleled connection with nature, where the sounds of the wild become your nightly lullaby and wildlife sightings are a constant thrill. It’s an experience that truly immerses you in the African bush. Reddit

Navigating Khwai: Self-Drive Adventures and Essential Preparations

For the adventurous traveler, a self-drive safari in the Khwai Community Concession offers immense freedom and the chance for spontaneous discoveries. A robust 4x4 vehicle is non-negotiable, as you'll encounter sandy tracks and potentially challenging river crossings, such as the notable Mbudi Crossing. These crossings can vary in depth depending on the season, so always assess them carefully before attempting. Instagram

Before embarking on your Khwai adventure, a crucial step is to report to the Khwai Development Trust office in Maun. This is a mandatory check-in, and the office itself is notoriously difficult to find, often unmarked and located near the Shell garage on Sir Seretse Khama Road. Allow ample time for this process to avoid any last-minute complications. Reddit

Once in Khwai, particularly at Magotho campsite, embrace the wild. You'll need to be fully self-sufficient, bringing all your supplies, including toilet paper. There are no water or power facilities at the campsite, but waste disposal bins are provided. The reward for this preparation is an authentic wilderness experience, with animals often passing through the camp, creating unforgettable moments. Reddit

Wildlife Wonders of Khwai: Beyond the Big Five

While the 'Big Five' are often the draw, Khwai Community Concession offers a spectacular array of wildlife that goes far beyond. Elephants are a common and majestic sight, frequently seen bathing in the Khwai River or ambling through campsites, seemingly unfazed by human presence. Instagram+1 These gentle giants provide incredible photographic opportunities and a humbling reminder of nature's scale. Instagram

The predator scene in Khwai is particularly vibrant. Lions are frequently spotted, with videos showcasing their movements and hunting behaviors. Instagram Hyenas, often misunderstood, are also a significant part of the ecosystem, with their pups providing moments of playful observation. Instagram+1 Keep an eye out for leopards too, which are known to frequent the area, adding an element of elusive excitement to your game drives. Reddit

Beyond the large mammals, Khwai is a haven for birdwatchers. The unique dead tree forest, for instance, is a habitat for species like the Meyers Parrot. Instagram The diverse landscapes support a rich avian population, making every game drive a potential discovery for ornithologists and casual observers alike. Instagram

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