;

Pelo Lodge

The term Pelo at Setswana means'center' -- a matching title motivated by the different heart-shaped island in the core of the Jao Concession where the camp has been constructed. That is the Delta since it's intended to be appreciated -- distant, real, and crazy.


Back to Top

Pelo Lodge

Pelo Lodge

Why we Love Pelo Lodge

The term Pelo at Setswana means'center' -- a matching title motivated by the different heart-shaped island in the core of the Jao Concession where the camp has been constructed. That is the Delta since it's intended to be appreciated -- distant, real, and crazy.

Destination:

Pelo means ‘heart’ in Setswana,a fitting name for this light-footprint camp which sits on a heart-shaped island. Surrounded by permanent water, in addition to mokoro activities in the open, shallow floodplains, guests can look forward to boating adventures and guided walks.

NOTE:  Pelo is open annually from 01 March to 30 November.

Experience:

A wonder in blue – the camp invites the exploration of its sinuous channels by boat or mokoro; watch for hippos, crocodiles, tiny reed frogs, and elephants feeding in the distance, and the rare and beautiful aquatic sitatunga antelope. Birders can tick off lifers like Pel’s fishing-owl, or look out for African jacanas and ‘umbrella fishing’ black herons, jewelled malachite kingfishers, and hundreds more. Catch-and-release fishing and guided walks round out a classic Delta safari at Pelo.

Purpose:

The beauty of the untamed wilderness is everywhere, and those who visit quickly come to understand why we are so passionate about conserving the wildlife and reducing our carbon footprint. Pelo is an excellent example of a light-footprint camp. Built using natural materials, it operates on 100% solar power, and offers low-impact, carbon-neutral activities.

Wildlife:

Pelo is nestled in a true wetland area of the Okavango Delta, the ideal habitat for the elusive sitatunga, and red lechwe. Hippos and crocodiles are often sighted, the latter seen sunning themselves on channel banks. In the dry season scan the floodplains for lechwe, impala and elephant. Birdlife is exceptional here – home to large concentrations of endangered wattled crane, as well as slaty egrets, rosy-throated longclaws and African skimmers, among many others.

Shaded by a thick canopy of trees, just five en-suite tents make up this intimate Okavango Delta safari camp, surrounded by a fluid ‘garden’ of clear-blue channels.

The camp’s tented dining area and lounge is set in the cool shade of wild date palms, jackalberry, and magnificent Natal mahogany trees, with a plunge pool to offer invigorating relief from the midday heat.

The sheltered boma invites fireside conversations, and a raised viewing platform built onto an old anthill offers front-row seats to the water-filled wonderland. 

The term Pelo at Setswana means'center' -- a matching title motivated by the different heart-shaped island in the core of the Jao Concession where the camp has been constructed. That is the Delta since it's intended to be appreciated -- distant, real, and crazy.

Amenities

  • Access by air
  • Boating
  • Child friendly
  • Cultural offering
  • Fishing
  • Fixed wing
  • Guided Walks
  • Helicopter Trips
  • Malaria area
  • Mekoro
  • Scenic flights
  • Swimming pool
  • Tented accommodation
  • Tented Camp

Activities

Pelo – Mokoro Excursions

The emphasis at Pelo is on mokoro excursions – a smooth, silent way to seamlessly connect both with the myriad features of the Okavango Delta and the rich heritage of the region’s people. This watery wonderland supports an abundance of water-loving wildlife and birds.

Pelo – Boating

Explore the more distant channels by boat. Lookout for red lechwe and elephant and maybe even catch a glimpse of spotted-necked otter.

Pelo – Guided Nature Walks

Take a walk on one of a number of low sandy islands and learn about the sustainable way of life of the River Bushman people in this area.

Pelo – Fishing 

Fishing with a limited supply of basic equipment (spinner rods and a small range of lures) is on offer seasonally on a catch and release basis.

* Note that fishing is seasonal as it is prohibited By Botswana law in January and February due to breeding purposes.

Facilities

Facilities
  • Property Facilities
  • Bar
  • Pool
Room Facilities
  • Electrical Outlets
  • En-Suite
  • Fan
  • Internet Access (Complimentary)
  • Laundry Service (Complimentary)
  • Outside Shower
  • Safe
  • Tea / Coffee
  • Verandah

Available Services
  • Credit Card
  • Activities on Site
  • Bird Watching
  • Boating
  • Catch-and-release Fishing
  • Mokoro Excursion
  • Walks (Guided)
  • Activities Nearby
  • Cultural Tours
  • Helicopter Scenic Flights

F&Q

1. When is Pelo Lodge open for guests?
Pelo Lodge is open annually from March 1st to November 30th. It operates within this timeframe to align with the seasonal conditions of the Okavango Delta, providing guests with the best safari experience during this period.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Botswana for my stay at Pelo Lodge?
Visa requirements for Botswana vary depending on your nationality. While citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa exemptions or visas upon arrival, others may need to obtain a visa in advance. It's recommended to check with the nearest Botswana embassy or consulate regarding visa requirements prior to your travel to ensure a smooth entry process.

3. How do I get to Pelo Lodge?
Guests typically fly into Maun, the main gateway to the Okavango Delta, and then take a connecting flight to a nearby airstrip. From there, a boat transfer arranged by the lodge will take you to Pelo Lodge, as it is situated on a heart-shaped island surrounded by permanent water in the Okavango Delta.

4. Are there any health concerns or vaccinations I should be aware of before visiting Pelo Lodge?
Travelers to Botswana are advised to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic before their trip to receive guidance on necessary vaccinations and health precautions. While there are no specific health concerns associated with Pelo Lodge, guests should take precautions against mosquito bites and protect themselves against malaria, as the lodge is located in a malaria-endemic region.

5. What experiences can I expect during my stay at Pelo Lodge?
At Pelo Lodge, guests can expect a unique safari experience centered around exploring the sinuous channels of the Okavango Delta by boat or mokoro (traditional dugout canoe). Activities include wildlife sightings such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and the elusive sitatunga antelope, as well as exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Catch-and-release fishing and guided walks are also available to guests.

6. How does Pelo Lodge contribute to conservation efforts and reducing its carbon footprint?
Pelo Lodge operates as a light-footprint camp, built using natural materials and running on 100% solar power. The lodge aims to reduce its environmental impact by offering low-impact, carbon-neutral activities. By staying at Pelo Lodge, guests directly contribute to the conservation of the Okavango Delta and support sustainable tourism practices.

Amenities

Amenities Not Found

Address

5GG4PHXX+82 Okavango Delta, Botswana

Internet

Transportation and transfer

Transfer : subject to supplement

Smooking policy

Smooking rooms:

Rooms

190 rooms and suites

In-room amenities : iPod dock, flatscreen TV, in-room safe, minibar

Available services

Air conditioned hotel

Laundry service

Concirge service

Corona Conscious

Handpicked Collection

Personalize Service

Perks & Offers

Price Matching

Trusted by Visa

Secure Booking

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

P.M

United Kingdom

9.03/10

Fantastic hotel, great atmosphere, room upgrade was much appreciated. All the staff I interacted with were great. One of the best hotel experiences I have ever had I would unreservedly recommend the hotel and will return.

G.P

United Kingdom

9.68/10

Probably the best City hotel weve stayed at. Alal Gogo was particularly outstanding. He managed to arrange for us to attend the Woody Allan Band show with our guest (who is a musician) even when it had been booked out and was very courteous throughout. Thank you so muclh. A wonderful stay.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

P.M

United Kingdom

9.03/10

Fantastic hotel, great atmosphere, room upgrade was much appreciated. All the staff I interacted with were great. One of the best hotel experiences I have ever had I would unreservedly recommend the hotel and will return.

G.P

United Kingdom

9.68/10

Probably the best City hotel weve stayed at. Alal Gogo was particularly outstanding. He managed to arrange for us to attend the Woody Allan Band show with our guest (who is a musician) even when it had been booked out and was very courteous throughout. Thank you so muclh. A wonderful stay.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

P.M

United Kingdom

9.03/10

Fantastic hotel, great atmosphere, room upgrade was much appreciated. All the staff I interacted with were great. One of the best hotel experiences I have ever had I would unreservedly recommend the hotel and will return.

G.P

United Kingdom

9.68/10

Probably the best City hotel weve stayed at. Alal Gogo was particularly outstanding. He managed to arrange for us to attend the Woody Allan Band show with our guest (who is a musician) even when it had been booked out and was very courteous throughout. Thank you so muclh. A wonderful stay.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

P.M

United Kingdom

9.03/10

Fantastic hotel, great atmosphere, room upgrade was much appreciated. All the staff I interacted with were great. One of the best hotel experiences I have ever had I would unreservedly recommend the hotel and will return.

G.P

United Kingdom

9.68/10

Probably the best City hotel weve stayed at. Alal Gogo was particularly outstanding. He managed to arrange for us to attend the Woody Allan Band show with our guest (who is a musician) even when it had been booked out and was very courteous throughout. Thank youa so muclh. A wonderful stay.

C.M

United States

8.68/10

We love the hotel and its location. The front desk staff was extremely pleasant. The breakfast staff are very friendly and efficient.

Some placeholder content for the first accordion panel. This panel is shown by default, thanks to the .show class.

Some placeholder content for the first accordion panel. This panel is shown by default, thanks to the .show class.

Some placeholder content for the first accordion panel. This panel is shown by default, thanks to the .show class.