From the moment we touched down at the Kanana airstrip, I was welcomed with a warmth that set the tone for the entire stay. Nestled in the southwest region of the Okavango Delta, Kanana is a hidden gem offering an intimate and immersive safari experience. The thoughtful refreshments and orientation on arrival immediately reflected the camp’s attention to detail and genuine hospitality.

Our site inspection revealed the true essence of Kanana’s charm. Every element—from the layout to the décor—was carefully curated to blend comfort with nature. The tents were spacious, impeccably clean, and well-equipped with all modern amenities. One standout feature was the bathroom, beautifully designed and surprisingly generous in size, with a shower that opened out to the serene wilderness—an unforgettable way to connect with nature.

After high tea, we set off on an afternoon game drive that quickly became one of the highlights of the trip. Just beside the Kanana sleepout deck, we witnessed a rare and captivating sight: two lions mating. It was a powerful moment that captured the raw beauty of the Delta’s wildlife. Our guide, Onalenna, was exceptional—his deep knowledge of animal behaviour, tracking techniques, and the ecosystem enriched every sighting, turning each encounter into a story.

We then visited the sleepout deck itself, a beautifully designed space blending natural materials with understated elegance. It offers guests the chance to sleep under the stars while enjoying comfort and safety—a truly unique safari experience. Shortly afterwards, we came across three lionesses with nine cubs, a heartwarming sight that left a lasting impression. The drive ended with sundowners at a scenic spot, where snacks and drinks were served as the sun dipped below the horizon. The atmosphere was magical, perfectly capturing the essence of a luxury safari in the Okavango Delta.

Back at camp, the evening unfolded around a welcoming fire. Guests gathered in a circle as the staff treated us to a vibrant performance of singing and dancing. This celebration of local culture was joyful, heartfelt, and deeply engaging—adding both emotional warmth and cultural richness to the experience. Meals throughout our stay were delicious, with bold flavours and thoughtful presentation that reflected the high standards Kanana is known for.

On our final morning, we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast and a warm, heartfelt farewell from the staff before checking out. One last game drive awaited us on the way to the airstrip. We passed the same mating lions from the previous evening, still near the sleepout deck—a rare and fascinating continuation of the sighting. Then came a personal highlight: a leopard resting gracefully on an old tree branch. Seeing a leopard had always been a dream of mine, and Kanana made that dream come true. As we neared the airstrip, a honey badger darted across our path, adding one more thrilling moment. And just before boarding, we saw a male lion calmly sitting beside the red flag at the airstrip—a surreal and unforgettable sight that perfectly capped off our Kanana journey.

Kanana delivered an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. From the warmth of the staff to the breathtaking beauty of the Okavango Delta, every moment was a seamless blend of comfort, wilderness, and authentic connection. This trip not only deepened my appreciation for our product offerings but also reaffirmed the value of immersive, heartfelt experiences in creating unforgettable safari journeys.