Hippo Report - Duba Plains

Dates Visited: April 2017

Location: Okavango

Comments: 

Having learned that Duba Plains was newly renovated a few months prior to my arrival, I had high expectations for my stay and was not disappointed. The main camp is gorgeous and features a lounge area, wine cellar, and a large outdoor deck where lunch is served. It feels luxurious but warm and welcoming at the same time. The tents are very spacious – the washroom is a room in itself with a massive shower and a gold bathtub. Each tent also comes with a plunge pool, an exercise bike, and two yoga mats (the best I encountered during my trip). We were also given a tour of the family suite, which it similar in size and lavishness to the Zarafa Dhow suites which is also owned by the Great Plains organization.

There is a plethora of wildlife to be seen in the surrounding area. We enjoyed our breakfast by a hippo pool, encountered herds of lechwe, a group of a dozen elephants, and found a pack of young lions before sunset. We were also lucky to find 4 rhinos which were relocated to Botswana to be protected from poachers. It was so amazing to see them happily grazing and growing accustomed to their new habitat!

Highlight of the trip: My travel partner and I had a great time getting to know Herman, the camp chef, who often greeted us at the main camp to introduce our afternoon tea snacks and present our dinner menu. Before departing, he gave me a tour of the kitchen which he says is a chef’s dream living in the bush. It’s no wonder that his food is so delicious because the extensive kitchen allows for more culinary freedom and creativity. There is also an open kitchen so guests can watch their dinner being made, and I hope I can take advantage of that next time!

One must have snack: Herman's famous chocolate cake! Ask for it!!

C