andBeyond Savute Under Canvas
- Escape to Africa Editorial Team
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
A Nomadic Camp in Elephant-Hunting Lion Territory
As the first light of dawn breaks over the Savute plains, painting the sky in hues of gold and amber, the gentle rustling of canvas and the distant call of a fish eagle herald the beginning of a new day at andBeyond Savute Under Canvas. This is no ordinary awakening; it's the start of an extraordinary journey into the heart of Botswana's wilderness, where luxury and adventure dance in perfect harmony.
Nestled within the legendary Chobe National Park, andBeyond Savute Under Canvas redefines the safari experience. The camp's unique concept of relocating every five or six days ensures guests are always at the epicentre of wildlife activity, while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and sophistication. As you step out of your elegant safari tent, the air carries the sweet scent of wild sage and sun-warmed earth, a sensory embrace that whispers tales of untamed Africa.
Your private sanctuary, a masterpiece of canvas and careful design, offers views that steal your breath away. The interior speaks of colonial charm – a plush king-sized bed draped in the finest linens, handcrafted furniture that tells stories of African artistry, and an en-suite bathroom that rivals many luxury hotels. From your private veranda, you watch in awe as a family of elephants ambles past, their presence a gentle reminder that here, we are guests in nature's realm.
As the day unfolds, you join an expert guide and tracker for a game drive through Savute's diverse ecosystems. The landscape is a tapestry of contrasts – from the mysterious Savute Channel, which flows and dries up independently of local rainfall, to vast savannah dotted with ancient baobabs. Each habitat offers its own wildlife spectacle, a testament to the incredible biodiversity of this corner of Botswana.
The afternoon brings an unexpected thrill as you encounter a pride of lions lounging near the channel, their cubs playfully wrestling in the dappled shade. Later, you witness the famous zebra migration, transforming the landscape into a living canvas of black and white stripes. The setting sun ignites the sky in a spectacular display of orange and purple, while a journey of giraffes browses lazily on acacia trees, their graceful silhouettes etched against the fiery backdrop.
Returning to camp, lanterns guide the way to dinner served under a canopy of stars. The chef's creation is a fusion of local flavours and international cuisine, featuring pan-seared kudu with wild mushroom sauce, accompanied by premium South African wines. The flickering light of the campfire creates dancing shadows as fellow travelers share tales of the day's adventures, the sounds of the African night providing nature's own symphony.
What sets andBeyond Savute apart is its ability to deliver unexpected moments of luxury in the midst of raw wilderness. From hot showers under the stars to surprise bush breakfasts set up near a waterhole, every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create unforgettable memories. The camp's expert staff, with their deep knowledge of the land and its inhabitants, transform each day into a journey of discovery.
As night falls, the symphony of the African bush reaches a crescendo. From your deck, you listen to the haunting call of a hyena and the distant roar of a lion claiming his territory. The vast savanna before you, now silvered by moonlight, continues its ancient rhythm of life, while you remain cocooned in the luxury of your tent, where vintage charm meets modern comfort.
andBeyond Savute Under Canvas is more than just a safari destination – it's a sensory journey where every moment brings a new discovery. Whether tracking a herd of buffalo through the bush, photographing a leopard in perfect morning light, or simply soaking in the serenity of the landscape from your private veranda, each experience adds another layer to this rich tapestry of African wilderness and refined luxury.
As you drift off to sleep, serenaded by the gentle whisper of the wind through the grass, you realise that this is more than just a safari – it's a journey into the very soul of Africa. The whispers of the wild stay with you, a siren call to return to this land of stark beauty and timeless wonder, where luxury and adventure intertwine to create something truly magical.
