Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat

Hideaways Africa

Mankwe, meaning “mother leopard,” is a serene sanctuary situated on a private concession east of the Moremi Game Reserve, just 85 kilometers from the vibrant tourism hub of Maun. A hidden oasis on the edge of a wilderness paradise, Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat offers a rare and intimate safari experience in the heart of Botswana. A gateway to the Okavango Delta, Khwai region, and Chobe National Park, Mankwe Tented Retreat provides an eco-conscious escape into some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Surrounded by mopane trees and expansive wilderness, Mankwe’s elevated Meru-style tented suites, designed with understated elegance, offer sweeping views of the bush from private decks, blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort. The lodge invites guests to not only engage in exploration—whether through game drives in the concession or safaris into bucket-list reserves—but also to take a step back and truly unwind. Interlinked by elevated wooden walkways, Mankwe offers a variety of tranquil spaces to relax, from the serene poolside to cozy nooks perfect for quiet reflection. Evenings bring the magic of the open-air boma, where stories are shared under a starlit sky, completing each day with moments of connection.

SEASON
All Year
CHILD POLICY
Children aged 7 years and older are welcome
ACCOMMODATION
10 Tented Suites
FACILITIES
Spa, 2 x Pools, Intimate Lounge Spaces, Boma

Your Experience

At Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat, your days begin with exclusive access to our private concession, where only Mankwe operates game drives. Whether going on a full or half-day safari, you’ll find yourself in the company of Africa’s most iconic wildlife—elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the elusive wild dogs. For those seeking iconic safari destinations, Mankwe provides guided game drives to the nearby Moremi Game Reserve and the southern Chobe Corridor—an unspoiled and rarely accessed area of Chobe.

As the sun rises over the bushveld, hop aboard our specialized 4x4 vehicle and take in unobstructed views of the wilderness. Enjoy morning coffee amidst the sounds of the awakening savanna or toast the setting sun with a refreshing sundowner as the landscape transforms. For birders, Mankwe’s exceptional location provides unmatched opportunities for birdwatching, with wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands hosting a variety of species, including Pel’s fishing owl.

When the Delta waters rise, your safari may extend into its waterways, where you may choose to partake in a mokoro ride or boating trip. Back at the lodge, relax with a pampering spa treatment overlooking the waterhole, where the stillness of the bush is the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation. Our soothing massages offer a tranquil haven after a busy day on safari.

Evenings bring their own magic at Mankwe. Gather around the open-air boma for an authentic Setswana meal prepared over the fire. Share stories, learn about local traditions, and even try your hand at cooking with our skilled Mankwe chefs. Or, opt for a sundowner experience, where the bush comes alive with nocturnal creatures as the last rays of sunlight fade.

At Mankwe, every moment is designed to bring you closer to the essence of Botswana.

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Plan Your Safari

Get in touch with our dedicated reservations department, where our consultants are eager to assist you in selecting the ideal destination and lodge that perfectly aligns with your preferences.  Let our experts guide you through the exciting possibilities and help you craft a trip that will create lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wi-Fi is available in the business lounge of the lodge, and mobile reception is limited. The retreat is designed to keep technology in the background, allowing guests to slow down and spend more time connected to the surrounding bush.

A stay at Mankwe Tented Retreat includes accommodation, all meals, water, soft drinks, beers, ciders, mixers, house wine, two shared safari activities per day, and laundry. Activities are guided by experienced local guides and focus on exploring the surrounding Moremi ecosystem.

Mankwe Tented Retreat welcomes children aged 7 and older. Due to the tented design and unfenced nature of the camp, it is best suited to families with older children who are comfortable in a wilderness setting. Families travelling with younger children may enquire about exclusive-use arrangements.

Guests can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in and around Moremi Game Reserve, as well as guided bush walks where conditions allow. The focus here is on quieter wildlife encounters and spending time in less-trafficked areas, balanced with relaxed time back in camp.

Mankwe Tented Retreat is located in a wildlife-rich area close to Moremi Game Reserve, known for its varied habitats and strong predator presence. Guests can realistically expect to see elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and a wide range of antelope species. Lion and leopard sightings are possible, with spotted hyena commonly present. Birdlife is excellent throughout the year, particularly during the summer months.

Mankwe Tented Retreat offers rewarding experiences year-round, with seasonal changes influencing the feel of the safari.

  • May to August (cooler, dry winter): mild daytime temperatures, cooler evenings, and good visibility for game drives as vegetation thins.
  • September to October (late dry season): warmer conditions and increased wildlife activity around permanent water sources.
  • November to March (green season): warmer temperatures, summer rains, greener landscapes, fewer visitors, and excellent birding as migratory species arrive.

A stay of three to four nights is ideal at Mankwe Tented Retreat. This allows time to enjoy multiple game drives, experience different wildlife movements, and settle into the quieter rhythm of a tented safari.

Mankwe Tented Retreat is best suited to couples, small groups, and experienced safari travelers who enjoy a lighter, more immersive bush experience. It appeals to guests who value privacy, simplicity, and the feeling of being close to nature, without the formality of a larger lodge.

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Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat

Best Price Guarantee Sticker

At Hideaways, we believe extraordinary safari moments should be accessible without compromise. For select partner camps where you see this badge, we guarantee the best available rate.

If you find a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it, and beat it.

Because your journey into the wild should begin with peace of mind, not price checks.

Package Rate Guarantee

When you book a multi-property stay at any of our Zambian Partner camps through Hideaways Africa, we’ll ensure you receive the best available package rates.

Applicable to Big Lagoon Camp, Takwela Main Camp, Tafika Main Camp, Mwaleshi Walking Camp, Chikoko Tree Camp, and Olimba Camp

Thoughtfully combined for exceptional value and seamless travel.