At Abu Camp, you are invited to immerse yourself in the majestic world of the African elephant and to see the African bush and its wildlife through the eyes of the elephants - by joining the Abu herd.
You will form a strong emotional bond with the herd that is both humbling and inspiring and at the same time, gain an understanding of elephant conservation - the premise on which Abu Camp is based.
Named after a very special bull elephant, Abu Camp is set in a pristine copse of riverine forest and blends in seamlessly with the magnificent surrounding hardwood trees.
Looking out over a large lagoon, an imaginative use of canvas has created a unique and luxurious style of tent.
Each of the six en-suite tents has its own distinctive furnishings and fittings, imparting an air of opulence in the bush, and featuring an indoor and outdoor shower, an outdoor copper bath and a plunge pool sunk into the elevated teak deck.
The multi-decked lounge and dining area and a well-stocked library and study, gym and pool will keep you entertained, informed and energised while at Abu Camp.
The whole premise on which Abu Camp is based is that of elephant conservation; the largest of land mammals is a keystone species (in other words, one that has a large effect on the ecosystem in which it lives) and an integral part of Africa's web of life.
The great paradox of elephant conservation is that while many African countries are experiencing rapidly declining elephant populations, others - such as Botswana - have to cope with burgeoning numbers.
Both declining and growing elephant populations present their own challenges, so applied research and adaptive management are essential in their resolution.
The Abu Camp elephant conservation strategy is based on understanding key issues impacting the conservation of southern Africa's elephants through working with different research institutions.
Research goals include investigating important aspects of elephant conservation and behaviour.
The lessons learned can make a positive contribution to the future survival of elephants across Africa.
The six airy canvas en-suite guest rooms exhibit their own distinctive elegance; blending in seamlessly with their surroundings, each tent is graced with generous decks and an outdoor copper bathtub; the stylish furnishings and fittings - individually chosen for each room - impart an air of opulence amid the bush setting.
For reflection, relaxation and even meditation, one can rest in the sitting area of the room, ponder or create art at the writing desk, or appreciate the views from the decks sculpted around the lofty fig and jackalberry trees shading the tents.
Internationally-trained chefs provide creative cuisine of the highest standard, and meals - most of which are served al fresco on the deck - are superbly complemented by premier South African wines and French champagnes from the extensive cellar.
A wide choice of international spirits and single malt whiskies are also on offer; safari days end with a nightcap around the campfire, recalling the day's experiences.
Maintain your body in good physical condition even during rest.
Feel the connection with gentle water. Enjoy the beautiful local views.
Abu Camp's resident elephant herd offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Africa as elephants naturally do, transform your perception of these magnificent creatures, of other wildlife and the living environment.
Time spent with the herd may even change your outlook on life itself.
During your stay, you are invited to become a member of the elephant herd.
Exploring the African bush with the Abu herd is an eye-opening and wonderful experience.
You will get to know the personalities of each family member - from playful youngsters to precocious teenagers and doting adults - all led by the wise, experienced matriarch, Cathy.
You will soon form a deep and enduring emotional connection to the herd - a sense of belonging which is both humbling and uplifting.
Meeting the Abu herd offers you the chance to engage and interact with the elephants through varied activities.
Shortly after arriving at camp, you will be personally introduced to the herd, and the activities that follow over the remainder of your stay here will give you a comprehensive and immersive experience as you begin to see the world through their eyes.
At Abu Camp the camp's team aim to offers you not a fixed, inflexible schedule of activities, but rather the chance to create your own experience, so you can focus on the moments that are most important to you and your fellow travellers.
ACTIVITY INCLUDE:
- walking with the Abu herd elephants;
- physically interacting with the herd;
- observing - or even participating in - activities such as mud bathing, training and veterinary care;
- learning more about elephant conservation, behaviour and care.
The abundance of fauna and flora means that game viewing is excellent and is appreciated through a variety of activities.
For those seeking the ultimate immersion experience into the serene, sensory world of the African elephant, Abu Camp offers you the opportunity to sleep out under the stars, in the Star Bed overlooking the elephant boma.
Prepare to be wowed by the 380 different species of birds of the Okavango region.
These drives showcase the abundance of wildlife in the varying habitats which range from open grasslands to secluded island sanctuaries and papyrus-fringed channels.
Get to know each elephant at Abu, with activities offering an all-encompassing insight into the world of the herd, including walking with them and observing their daily rituals and routines.
The library features a comprehensive collection of African literature, lifestyle books and field guides, and is the perfect setting for quiet reading, a game of chess, or a lesson from your guide or elephant manager.
Take a unique nature walk by following the herd on foot as they move through the bush, feeding as they go.
Offering a bird’s-eye view of the ecosystem and an insight into its formation, flying is one of best ways of appreciating the diversity and ecology of the Abu Concession.
Leading off from the library is a small gallery displaying lovely jewellery, art, curios and apparel available for sale if you wish to bring home a piece of Abu.
ABU CAMP
Okavango DeltaMaunBotswana