Luxurious private retreat

Yes, skilled and knowledgeable guides typically serve you during your safari, but what if a true local, in the form of a fully-grown African elephant, takes you on a bush walk? Get a real peek behind the scenes and let three semi-habituated elephants show you how they collect their meals, shower in the Delta waters, and strip trees with their large trunks. Doug and Sandi Groves adopted Jabu, Thembi and Morula when they were orphaned and this trio is more than happy to show you around. Sanctuary Baines Camp is the perfect location for this; a permanent water camp, located in the southern Okavango Delta region, in a private concession that borders the Moremi Game Reserve. Strung out along the banks of the Boro River, Baines Camp is set amongst shady trees with expansive views. This is where you come to explore the real, unspoilt African bush.

The camp includes five canvas and thatched tented suites on elevated platforms, linked by wooden walkways. With only five luxury tents, Sanctuary Baines Camp is a true romantic oasis. Take an outdoor candlelit bubble bath while gazing up at the Southern Hemisphere constellations on your private deck, or sleep under the Okavango Delta night sky, if you wish. Suites feature a luxury bedroom with a fully mobile ‘sky-bed’ (you will see what it is all about once you are there), and other suite facilities include a ceiling fan, hairdryer and minibar. The eco-friendly camp guest areas boast a deck for outdoor dinners with spectacular lagoon views, a swimming pool with relaxation salas on either side (for the best siesta nap), a homey indoor dining area and a boma. And for a true couples-getaway: romantic private dinners can be arranged on your deck (by request).

Activities at Sanctuary Baines Camp

As mentioned, the ‘Living with Elephants’ activity is a must. This foundation ran by Doug and Sandi Groves, works to secure the long-term future of elephants. These giants can live for over seventy years, so when Doug and Sandi adopted Jabu, Thembi and Morula (rescuing them from culling operations that had left them orphans) they knew they were making a life-long commitment to the trio. And you will too - spending time with these beautiful elephants will give you an everlasting memory. Of course, there is more to explore: famed for its big cat and bird population, the Okavango Delta is a place where animals have been protected for decades in their natural habitat. So venture out in the morning and evening with a 4x4, slide through the waters in a mokoro, or hop on a motorised boat to cover even more ground. And how about seeing the bush from the same level as wildlife? Go on a guided walking safari (dependent on guide availability) and discover all the nuanced details of the bush. Either way: there are endless ways to explore the real Africa at Sanctuary Baines Camp.

Tripadvisor comments Sanctuary Baines Camp

Absolutely Stunning! Enjoyed every minute and it was treat to come back to a bubble bath under the stars after a long time long day!!! We loved all of the sanctuary camps and guides, but this was special! The most amazing sunset! Ready to go back today!

Wendy V

If you are looking for the world's most romantic get away, look no further. My fiancée proposed on the banks on the delta which was so special. Made even more special by the wonderful party the Baines team threw. Singing and dancing we were made to fell like a king and queen. Food is excellent, rooms are wonderful. Staff are second to none and guiding was superb. I can't rate the whole experience and the Baines team high enough.

sunsafari2014 from Cape Town, South Africa