About Company
Jao Concession Overview
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Size & Location: This private reserve spans about 60,000 hectares (approximately 600 km²), located in the north-western Okavango Delta just below the Panhandle. It shares a boundary with Moremi Game Reserve to the east.
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Landscape: A mesmerizing mosaic of permanent waterways, palm-fringed islands, papyrus and reed beds (especially in the eastern Jao Flats), and gradually dryer woodlands toward the west and Hunda Island.
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Biodiversity: Home to iconic megafauna—red lechwe, lions, leopards, buffalo, elephant, hippo, crocodile, giraffe, zebra, tsessebe, impala, wildebeest, and the elusive sitatunga antelope. Birdlife is equally rich, including wattled cranes, Pel’s fishing-owl, Meyer’s parrot, slaty egrets, and many waterfowl.
🏕️ Jao Camp (Flagship)
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Private Island Setting: Accessible only by air, this luxurious camp sits on its own island amidst riverine forest and floodplains.
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Accommodations: Five luxurious tented suites and two villas, each spacious and handcrafted with canvas, wood, thatch—complete with indoor & outdoor showers, private sala, and stunning floodplain views.
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Main Facilities: Central lodge built into the canopy, including lounge, dining area, two plunge pools, spa, gym, library, cellar, curio shop, boma, and even a sleep‑out hide for an immersive bush experience.
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Design & Sustainability: Combining Balinese artistry with African elegance, Jao Camp was renovated using recycled and sustainable materials, offering a luxurious yet eco-conscious “tree‑house” safari setting.
🐾 Activities & Wildlife Experience
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Land Safaris: Day & night game drives allow tracking of big cats, buffalo herds, elephant, zebra, and more across varied terrain.
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Water Adventures: Mokoro and boat safaris through papyrus channels bring you eye‑level to wildlife, including boating past elephants and hippos.
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Bush Walks & Birding: Guided walks and dedicated hides offer close-up encounters with smaller wildlife, rare birds (like Pel’s fishing-owl), and stunning flora.
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Wellness & Relaxation: Spa treatments, hammocks, a gym overlooking the Delta, wine cellar, and sunset poolside lounging round out the experience.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
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Dry Season (April–October): Ideal for both water and land safaris—supporting excellent wildlife visibility and comfortable bush walks.
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Flood Season (May–August): Transforms the landscape into a lush water wonderland—perfect for mokoro and boat safaris, especially as red lechwe gather in large herds.
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Check seasonal rates: Luxury camp pricing is higher, but wildlife diversity remains rich year‑round.
🌍 Conservation & Legacy
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Operated under Wilderness Safaris with a strong commitment to conservation, Jao Camp demonstrates a successful model of luxury tourism that benefits wildlife populations and local heritage, tied back to the pioneering efforts of the Kay family.
Final Take
Jao Reserve and its flagship camp deliver a spectacular fusion of luxury, adventure, and ecological integrity. From private island suites and bespoke safaris to tranquil mokoro trips and healthful spa moments, it’s the epitome of an immersive Okavango Delta experience.