Safari
Run with the same skill and care as big brother Machaba Camp, Kiri sits on the western side of a 100,000-acre community-operated concession in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Depending on the time of year, the camp is surrounded by expansive floodplains or islands where wildlife is abundant - you could spot everything from African painted dog to those elusive species on your birding wish-list. Kiri was built to be as incognito as possible, using light woods and canvas, and the tents almost disappear amongst the jackalberry trees. You'll fall asleep every night to the chirrups and calls of the Delta, including (sometimes) the low rumbles of the nearby lions.
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Overlooking the wildlife-filled plains or wetlands, the spacious deck will soon become your favourite place to be. During the day, plop down on a lounger for an 'armchair safari' and after nightfall, the trees are filled with lanterns and drinks are served around the firepit. Entirely open-sided, the dining and lounge area is decorated with earthy tones, hand-crafted artwork, and cosy couches, though most meals are served alfresco. There isn't Wi-Fi at the main area or tents, but you can get a connection near the office if required.
Built on stilted platforms for when the waters rise, there are 10 tents nestled on the banks of the Kiri Channel. They have a vintage, unpretentious feel but there's certainly nothing lacking (there are plenty of charging points!). The shower and bathtub are roofless, and a ceiling of stars is a magic way to end the day. The tents are dominated by a large bed, which enjoys fabulous views and opens onto a well-proportioned deck. There are two bigger family tents as well.
Depending on the season, you'll embark on unforgettable mokoro or motorboat rides, passing birds of every size and the Delta's famous wildlife at knee-cap level. As the water levels recede between September and April, enjoy walking safaris where your guide will reveal the tiniest details left behind by beetles, birds and larger creatures, as well as game drives. Eyes peeled for big cats, elephant and herds of buffalo. In Kiri's private concession, off-road and night drives are also allowed.
You couldn't get closer to the wonders of the Okavango Delta at Kiri, where wildlife often roams straight through the camp.
The activities vary hugely based on the seasons, so plan carefully based on what you want to do.
Families are very welcome but older kids will likely enjoy Kiri Camp more as only children over 12 can join mokoro rides and walking excursions.
Kiri Camp is owned by Machaba Safaris which deeply values the communities in Botswana and Zimbabwe, and feeds back into them through education, empowerment, and conservation initiatives. They support local schools and programs while working with communities to protect fragile ecosystems and promote human-wildlife coexistence. Addressing infrastructure needs, they provide essentials like water and sustainable gardens. Visitors can contribute through donations, volunteering, or simply by choosing Machaba Safaris for their safari experience.
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