Tuludi Camp
- Okavango Delta, BotswanaThe floodplains stretch as far as the eye can see and the glistening waterways and emerald forests attract all the stars of the safari show.
touch the soul of africa
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.
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.
Morning and afternoon game drives are offered in open safari vehicles. These drives showcase the abundance of wildlife in the varying habitats which range from open grasslands to secluded island sanctuaries and papyrus-fringed channels. While predator encounters (especially leopard and hyaena) are a highlight, an Abu Camp game drive is one of the best ways to appreciate just why the Okavango Delta is UNESCO’s 1000th World Heritage Site.
Season-dependent mokoro excursions offer a taste of the “postcard” Okavango – at Abu however we offer mokoro moments with a difference – alongside elephants splashing through the water! The traditional dugout canoes are navigated by a skilled poler and offer guests a tranquil and romantic perspective of the region as well as the chance to witness the elephants' delight at being together in the water.
Walking in the bush with an experienced guide (subject to availability) can be one of the most exciting ways of viewing game, as well as appreciating the smaller critters and plant life which complete the rich tapestry of life in the Okavango.
The ultimate immersion experience into the sensory world of the elephant can be experienced by sleeping out under the stars overlooking the elephant boma. Be lulled to sleep by the contented rumbling and low snores of the elephants below.
Some 380 bird species reside in the area and the diversity of activities offered at Abu can lead to special sightings such as lesser jacana, pygmy goose, wattled crane, slaty egret, coppery-tailed coucal and even rosy-throated longclaw amongst others.
Scenic light aircraft or helicopter flights can be arranged during your stay at camp. 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. * This activity is at extra cost, to be settled directly in camp.
The essence of Abu is the experience of being part of an elephant herd in its natural habitat. However unlike some of the water-inundated areas of the Okavango Delta, the Abu Concession varies from open grasslands to secluded island sanctuaries and papyrus-fringed channels. This variety of natural habitats allows for an abundance of general game. Giraffe, zebra, elephant, impala, tsessebe, lechwe, wildebeest, buffalo and warthog roam the 180 000 hectares. Lion often move through the area too and can sometimes be heard calling at night, while hyaena and leopard are resident and so are encountered more frequently.
