BEAGLE EXPEDITIONS

Beagle Expeditions operates in the Abu Private Reserve, in the western Okavango Delta, within a private concession of approximately 30,000 hectares. It follows the Kweene River system, an exceptionally remote area of seasonal swamps, floodplains, islands and waterways. They are the only safari operator working along this particular section of the Kweene, giving guests a genuine feeling of having the wilderness to themselves. Access is by helicopter from Maun, taking roughly 30–35 minutes, with no road access or conventional scheduled light-aircraft transfer into camp.

The southern part of the area around Kweene River Camp has a somewhat drier, more open character and supports good concentrations of grazing animals and their predators, this is where your safari starts. Further north the environment becomes wetter and more typical of the seasonal Okavango swamp, with permanent channels, floodplains and wooded islands and this is where the second base is called Magwegwe.

Both Kweene River and Magwegwe Camp camp have a light footprint and a deliberately natural feel, with spacious Meru-style canvas tents that are open to the sounds and atmosphere of the surrounding bush. Comfortable camp beds are dressed in good-quality linen, while each tent has its own en-suite bush bathroom with a hot bucket shower and composting toilet.

The main area is similarly understated, with a communal dining table, comfortable seating, a small bar, tea and coffee facilities and a campfire. There is no swimming pool, spa or elaborate lodge infrastructure; instead, the experience revolves around sitting around the fire, eating outdoors, watching wildlife and spending as much time as possible in the wilderness.

The two camps are approximately 14 kilometres apart, but the journey between them is an important part of the safari rather than simply a transfer.

A typical expedition is planned for a minimum of 4 people up to 10 and for a minimum of four nights, generally spending two nights at each camp, although longer and tailored arrangements are of course possible. What makes the operation particularly interesting is that guests move between the two camps as part of the safari. Depending on water levels and conditions, the journey can be undertaken on foot, by mokoro, by safari vehicle or through a combination of these. This means the move between camps becomes a full day of exploration rather than a routine camp transfer. Guests can experience the Delta at a much slower pace, walking through the wilderness, travelling along waterways and stopping for a picnic lunch and rest while the support team moves ahead to establish the next camp.

Activities include game drives, walking and mokoro excursions when water levels permit, with the private concession providing considerable freedom to explore away from the more heavily used safari routes. The emphasis is on interpretation and immersion rather than ticking off a list of sightings. The walking element is one of Beagle's strongest attractions, with their high level guides, allowing you to experience the Delta at ground level and appreciate tracks, birds, plants and smaller wildlife as well as the larger animals.

The camps are off-grid, with no Wi-Fi or mobile signal. Solar battery systems provide lighting and charging, so you should expect to disconnect during your stay. Meals are prepared using fresh ingredients, often cooked over an open fire, with good-quality South African wines and drinks. Although the accommodation is intentionally simple, the food, guiding and hospitality are not compromised. This is very much “simplistic luxury” rather than budget camping.

The important thing to understand is that Beagle is not aimed at guests looking for a traditional five-star lodge with a pool, air conditioning, spa and polished permanent infrastructure. Its luxury comes from the extraordinary location, exceptional guiding, privacy, food, comfortable beds and the freedom to experience the wilderness in a much more intimate way. For the right travellers, who value real wilderness and exclusivity, this is the ideal choice.